Introducing Salem Sox Insider, a new feature where Roanoker Magazine’s summer intern – and huge baseball fan – Dane Ferguson gives his view on all things Salem Red Sox.
Above all, the distinct ballpark aroma of popcorn, hotdogs, chicken tenders and beer set the stage for a memorable night in Salem despite any gloomy weather.
Honoring those of us from the 90’s with “90’s Night” I was reminiscent of the culture which I was embedded with while growing up. From the music to the mid-inning video clips to promotional games, I had no choice but to feel like a kid all night long. But as a writer in the press box, I had to tame myself.
Yet, seeing youngsters in full uniform, hat, glove, jersey and even cleats, I couldn’t help but remember those days and how much a foul ball can actually mean. Put it simple, if a ball gets hit into the stands, you better expect a mob of kids racing to recover that thing!
As the first half of the year winds down, 2013 has been the “Year of the Fan”, with a huge emphasis on keeping fans inside LewisGale Field and with theme nights, it’s a sure thing. Tunes from MC Hammer, Hanson, Shaggy, Jay-Z, and video clips from Double Dare, Fresh Prince, Saved by the Bell and Space Jam…seriously, how could anyone want to leave?
They even had a promo where the contestant had to reach a score of 15 on the original Bop It! You know… bop it, twist it, pull it, spin it. Well maybe not but my fellow millennium’s sure do.
So, what about the Sox? Are they playing well? Will they be a playoff contender?
Well, only 4.5 games back and the All-Star Break approaching next week, Salem looks forward to the time off to recharge in hopes of finishing the season in the top half of the league.
While there have been many back-and-forth ball games throughout the season, the Sox feel that if things fall their way more times than not, then they are an absolute playoff contender.
“We’re in the hunt, we just need some breaks to go our way and continue to play consistent,” said Red Sox manager, Billy McMillon. “Most of our losses…there’s been several 1-run games and if we can get some of those to go our way and we get on a roll, we’re right there.”
With the Sox playing semi-acceptable baseball and a beautiful Salem Red Sox stadium to enjoy (with a “Green Monster” of their own), there’s no doubt that a night out to the ballpark will be worthy of fun for every single fan.
So check out the schedule, pick a game and head out to Salem to catch the Sox in action before it’s too late!
