Local baseball is back and it’s better than ever, with new promotions, theme nights and special dates.
“After no season in 2020 and an abbreviated season last year, with no time to plan because of the pandemic, we’re coming back stronger and better than ever in 2022,” says Michael Limmer, vice president for marketing and promotions at Fort Wayne TinCaps. “We all know COVID is not a thing of the past, but people are making choices based on what they are most comfortable doing. We’re family entertainment and have something for everyone and we take our responsibility to make each fan feel welcome very seriously.”
The TinCaps 66-game home schedule began April 12 against the South Bend Cubs and marked the first of 10 Tuesday Family Feast Nights, featuring select $2 concession items. The 2022 promotional theme game schedule will be highlighted by 25 fireworks nights and some brand-new promotions.
Wednesday nights are dedicated to Paws and Claws (July afternoon games not included). Fans are welcome to bring their dogs and cats to the game, where special ticket options are available for pet owners. Thirsty Thursdays features discounted domestic draft beers and other drink specials. Postgame fireworks will begin May 20 on Fridays and Saturdays. In addition, there will be fireworks after games on June 21, July 4 and four Thursday night games.
On Tuesday, May 17, Parkview Field will be a safe environment for those with severe peanut allergies. The TinCaps will also hold a second and third “Peanut-Free Night” on Tuesday, June 21, and Tuesday, Aug. 16.
Saturday, May 21 will be marked by Fort Wayne Daisies Throwback, celebrating the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League of the 1940s
“We want to hear stories from players who are still with us and from the people who knew someone who played for the Daisies. We’re celebrating baseball history that night and the Daisies were a big part of that history and we will be honoring all of the players,” Limmer says.
Friday, May 27 is Marvel Super Hero Night, as well as the first of two Scout Nights. On Friday, July 15, The TinCaps will also host Marvel Defenders of the Diamond Night with a character appearance, while the team’s second Scout Night is set for Friday, June 10, which is also Wands and Wizards Night.
Saturday, May 28, will be dedicated to Mental Health Awareness and the first of five game nights featuring national entertainers. Tyler’s Amazing Balancing Act will be featured at this game and again on Saturday, July 16. For the first time ever, the game park will welcome Dueling Pianos on June 25.
On Sunday, June 26, the TinCaps will host their annual Military Appreciation Day presented by OmniSource, Steel Dyamnics, and the San Diego Padres with complementary tickets for military personnel and their families (TinCapsMilitary.com).
With actor Leslie David Baker (Stanley from “The Office”) scheduled to be in attendance, the TinCaps will have fun with TV Sitcoms Night on Thursday, July 7.
The world-famous ZOOperstars! will have fans laughing on Saturday, July 9, while their friend BirdZerk! will be in town the final weekend of the season on Saturday, Sept. 3.
The weekend of Aug. 5-7 will feature the highly anticipated debut of the TinCaps playing as an alternate identity, “Manzanas Luchadoras,” Spanish for “Fighting Apples,” as part of Minor League Baseball’s series to embrace the culture and values of the local Hispanic/Latino community.
Finally, to the delight of many fans, the team’s annual “Star Wars” Night will be Friday, Aug. 19.
As the season continues, part-time staff is needed to help with all aspects of game night, especially in the areas of concession stands, ballpark carts and housekeeping. Pay begins at $12.75 an hour and workers can earn additional money through tips.
Parkview Field’s concourse is open during the day for walkers, runners or guests visiting the ballpark, and contains the Robert E. Meyers Park, where splash pads will be in operation this summer. The field’s administrative offices and the Orchard Team Store have returned to regular hours.
With versatile spaces both indoors and outdoors, the field is once again hosting special events at full capacity, such as weddings, receptions, fundraiser dinners, charity walks and more. Learn details at ParkviewField.com.
Fans can follow TinCaps action on television, radio and online. All home games will be broadcast live on Comcast network channel 81, streamed on MiLB.tv, and all 132 games can be heard on 1380 The Fan and 100.9 FM.
For more information on individual tickets, season tickets and group outings, call (260) 482-6400. Find a complete listing of 2022 promotions and events at TinCaps.com. ❚