Went to my first Braves game of the season last night. Game started out good for the Braves. Rookie rightfielder threw out two runners, stole a base and scored a run, and knocked in a run. If he keeps it up, I might learn his name.
Left work at 315 and made several poor decisions trying to get around the heavy traffic. Got caught by all the red lights. PIB to 285 to Ashford Dunwoody, then through Sandy Springs – Johnson Ferry to Heards Ferry to the 285 access road to Powers Ferry. Seemed like it took forever, but made it in just under an hour.
Made the 1.32 mile uphill walk in 25 minutes. 81 degrees 52% humidity. Bought a general admission ticket at the ticket booth, and was in the line at the First Base Gate by 445. Passed the time clearing up emails and checking social media. Got stuck behind a lady with a purse setting off the metal detector, then I bumped into it when I passed through.
Once inside I circumnavigated the ballpark counterclockwise, checking out the team store and outfield new concessions area. Nabbed a free All Star Game t-shirt and designated driver Coke, and stopped by the season ticket office for a bag to stash everything in.
Evidently I walked right past Marcel Ozuna (or maybe his body double?) handing out his bobblehead at the Rightfield Gate. Crazy Darryl saw him, and made it on Braves social media.
Went up to my seat in section 413 to sit for a spell. It was 615 pm. I had failed to figure out where that relocated Blooper’s Clubhouse, so I couldn’t get a picture with him (it?). Also forgot to sneak into the pregame parade around the field.
Instead I sent some texts, cleared emails, and entered sweepstakes. Had three different friends at the game, but wasn’t able to meet up with them.
The kids from Eastside Christian School sang the national anthem. Eastside is just two miles from our house.
Wore my Ted Turner #27 Braves road jersey and matching cap, since the anniversary of Ted’s managerial debut had just passed a few days ago. Received two compliments on my outfit. I’ve stopped taking pictures of unique jerseys, but made one exception (below). Also sat a Jessie Chavez #60 jersey, and a Tyler Matzek jersey. Really wasn’t looking hard. I do know that those knockoff Atliens jerseys don’t make middle aged white guys look any hipper or cooler. Not that I haven't considered getting one for myself.
Enjoyed the game. Braves played well for starter Bryce Elder, but the hated Nats got to the beleaguered Braves bullpen. At the clock struck nine I headed down to the lower level.
Walked from right field around to the Third Base Gate, then outside to head to my car. By then the evening was cooler (75) but more humid (66%). Made it home before 10 pm – so a 7 hour adventure. Got the Ozuna bobblehead for a friend.
Ceil and Matthew had ordered a large pie from Pizzeria Lucca, so I had a slice. I had passed on the $2 hot dogs at the ballpark.
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