Catching a home run ball is only a short trip from Lake Norman
By Sean Owens
There’s nothing like sitting down with family and friends, along with a hot dog and a cold beverage, to cheer on the home team. With Spring upon us, the boys of summer are back in action at your local Minor League ballpark. Here is a quick guide on how you can catch all the Minor League action on the baseball diamond this year all within a short drive from the Lake Norman area:
Did you know? Minor League Baseball is a hierarchy of professional baseball leagues in the Americas that compete at levels below Major League Baseball (MLB) and provide opportunities for player development and a way to prepare for the major leagues. For each Minor League team listed below, we’ll share their level, and their Major League Baseball affiliate.
Asheville Tourists – Single A – Colorado Rockies
Did you know? The phrase “Thirsty Thursday” was created and trademarked by the Asheville Tourists organization.
Buies Creek Astros (Fayetteville) – Single A (Advanced) – Houston Astros
Did you know? This team is only in its second year of existence and is affiliated with the 2017 World Series Champions Houston Astros. In 2019, they will be opening a brand-new stadium.
Burlington Royals – Rookie League – Kansas City Royals
Did you know? Burlington Athletic Stadium was originally built in Danville, VA and was reconstructed in 1958 at its current site.
Carolina Mudcats (Zebulon) – Single A (Advanced) – Milwaukee Brewers
Can’t miss game promotion: Carolinians take their BBQ seriously and on July 14, the Mudcats are hosting a “Battle of the Sauces” promotional night. Fans can vote for their favorite BBQ sauce – Eastern vs. Western. The first 1,200 fans 21+ older get a free a one-of-a-kind BBQ mitt.
Charlotte Knights – Triple A – Chicago White Sox
Be on the lookout! If you happen to be at a Thursday–Saturday home game, keep an eye out for a possible grounds crew break out dance routine while dragging the field at the end of the 6thinning.
Down East Wood Ducks (Kinston) – Single A (Advanced) – Texas Rangers
Fun Fact: If you’re a fan of food trucks, be sure to visit the Wood Ducks on a Friday night for “Food Truck Friday.” They will have various food trucks from Eastern North Carolina to add to the game day food experience.
Durham Bulls – Triple A – Tampa Bay Rays
Fun Fact: Made famous by the 1988 hit movie “Bull Durham,” you will see above the left-field wall the infamous large bull sign that reads “Hit Bull, Win Steak.”
Hickory Crawdads – Single A – Texas Rangers
Know before you go: Bring your appetite!! Be sure to look for the CLAWlossal food challenge at the concession stand. You won’t believe how much food you must eat in an inning or less!
Greensboro Grasshoppers – Single A – Miami Marlins
Dog lovers must see: The Grasshoppers have three black Labradors that retrieve the bats, bring balls to the umpires, and participate in in-game skits.
Kannapolis Intimidators – Single A – Chicago White Sox
Gotta try: Paying tribute, beyond the team name, to the late NASCAR legend, Dale Earnhardt, Sr., you can purchase “Dale’s Mater Sandwich,” a tomato sandwich on toasted bread, salt and pepper and Duke’s mayonnaise. A Southern delicacy.
Winston-Salem Dash – Single A (Advanced) – Chicago White Sox
Attention Yogis: On June 7, fans 6+ years old can enjoy a yoga class, lawn seat, and receive a soda, beer, or wine voucher for only $14. Namaste!
As a real estate agent rising through the rankings myself, I’m here to assist you with your real estate needs. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home, I’m here to help make your experience a Grand Slam! Also, as a 15-year Minor League Baseball employee, I can also assist you with planning a great game day experience. So, grab your glove and let’s root, root, root for the home team!
Sean Owens is a Broker with Nest Realty Lake Norman. With a strong background in sales and marketing, along with 18 years living in Charlotte area, Sean can make your experience a positive one.