Maine

Portland Sea Dogs' Home Opener Features Drew Pomeranz Vs. Tim Tebow

In Portland, Maine, the Red Sox farm team is getting some star power to sell out tickets for opening day.

Starting for the Sea Dogs will be Red Sox pitcher Drew Pomeranz. The lefty is recovering from a spring training injury.

Stepping up to the plate for the Binghamton Rumble Ponies is Tim Tebow.

"I think I'm improving and growing every day, working hard," said Tebow. The Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL quarterback is taking a swing at a baseball career. He is an outfielder in the New York Mets' organization.

He said he was excited to hit some pitches from a pitcher of Pomeranz's caliber.

"To be able to play somebody talented with a lot of experience will be a lot of fun," he said.

In his first at bat this season, against the Sea Dogs, Tebow hit a home run.

"He's an incredible athlete," said Sea Dogs General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. "I think we're all excited to see him play."

Sea Dogs spokesperson Chris Cameron said it will be a sell-out crowd Friday night. More than 7,300 fans are expected.

This opening day marks the Sea Dogs' 25th. Hadlock Field has several new features, including expanded local beer selections and a nacho cart. Cameron said he is most excited the stadium is serving Maine soft drink, Moxie.

"For a true Mainer, that's something special," he said.

Fans may also noticed expanded netting around the ballpark. Hadlock Field used to have netting behind home plate, from dugout to dugout. Now, the netting extends down the base lines.

"We want to ensure fans can come to a game, be safe, have an enjoyable time, and not worry about getting hit by a foul ball," said Cameron.

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