At the end of a media day full of cameras, note pads and tape recorders – and two elementary school-age interviewers – on Monday afternoon, River Cats manager Steve Scarsone stopped, looked around and offered a question right back to the group:
"Anyone else want a piece of me?"
Scarsone was free to go, but the affable first-year manager will soon find out the A's may want a piece of him, or more specifically his players. Any number of players could be called up to the big club during the season, which makes watching the River Cats even more entertaining.
The River Cats open their 14th Triple-A season in West Sacramento tonight – if, as public relations guy Zak Basch insists, "it doesn't rain at Raley Field" – with a star-studded roster.
The team features five first-round picks, including slugger Michael Choice, who crushed two home runs this week in exhibitions against the Stockton Ports. Infielder Jemile Weeks has history with the A's, and others also have had stints in the big leagues.
And you can't beat the view, prices, fireworks, food options, customer service and charm of Raley Field, as good a stadium as you'll find anywhere in the minor leagues.
What to do
Baseball, Las Vegas at River Cats, 7:05 p.m., Raley Field: Rain, rain, stay away … it's time to play ball.
What to watch
NBA, San Antonio at Oklahoma City, 6:30 p.m., TNT: One of these two likely will win the Western Conference and home court in the playoffs until the Finals.
Today's poll
What do you most appreciate about the River Cats?
• The stadium
• The game
• The possibility of seeing future major leaguers
Vote above or leave your comments in the comments field; or go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Monday's results
What is your favorite Opening Day?
• Baseball: 43%
• Football: 50%
• Basketball: 7%
Total votes: 479
Follow on Twitter: @SacBee_JoeD and on podcast: ESPN1320.net
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