CINCINNATI (AP) — There’s a big parade, block and office parties, live music, and finally, a baseball game.
For the Cincinnati Reds, Monday is the opening day of the new season. They host the Pittsburgh Pirates at 4:10 p.m.
For many of their fans, it’s an annual holiday of baseball.
Special celebrations of the Reds’ season opener in Cincinnati go back to the 19th century, and the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade emerged as a pregame centerpiece. The 96th parade begins at noon, with marching bands, color guards, politicians and local celebrities walking or riding on floats or in other vehicles through the city.
This year’s grand marshals are the “Nasty Boys,” the bullpen trio of Norm Charlton, Rob Dibble and Randy Myers who starred for the 1990 World Series winners.
Prior to Opening Day, the Reds put starter Homer Bailey on the 15-day disabled list and left-handed reliever Sean Marshall on the 60-day DL to open roster spots.
EXTRA: Cincinnati Reds schedule and ticket information
The Indians open their season on the road at Houston. The tribe and ace Corey Kluber finalized a $38.5 million, five-year contract that gives the AL Cy Young Award winner security.
EXTRA: Cleveland Indians schedule and ticket information
The Clippers open the 2015 season at Indianapolis Thursday and play their first eight games on the road before playing their first game of the season at Huntington Park April 18 (6:05 p.m.).