While the major leagues won鈥檛 be playing ball on Opening Day March 31 because talks have broken down between the MLB and the players association, there is some good news for baseball fans.
There will be baseball in Ohio in the early spring.
As of now, the Columbus Clippers start that day as well, but on the road, and come back for their home opener April 12 at Huntington Park.
Also, around the state, the Toledo Mud Hens will host their home opener on April 5. The Dayton Dragons start at home on April 8. The Akron Rubber Ducks and the Lake County Captains also start that day away, with their home openers set for April 12.
Gov. Mike DeWine is a longtime Cincinnati Reds fan and his family has owned the Houston Astros鈥� North Carolina affiliate the Ashville Tourists for 12 years.
DeWine said while it鈥檚 disappointing major league teams won鈥檛 start on time, he said Ohio鈥檚 five minor league baseball teams should be playing in April.
鈥淭hey have players who are not in collective bargaining; they鈥檙e not in the union. And until they have a major league contract, they can certainly play in the minor leagues," DeWine said. "So my understanding is all Ohio minor league teams will be starting the season on the date that they鈥檝e set.鈥�
DeWine said the delayed start will hurt the small businesses and vendors near Progressive Field in Cleveland and Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.
in Cincinnati, which usually brings in thousands and has been postponed again this year, after being canceled for the last two years.
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