With the 2015 season hitting the home stretch, the Asheville Tourists have officially released their schedule for 2016.
Asheville will host 70 regular season games, 34 in the first half of the season and 36 in the second half, while the Tourists will play 70 contests on the road. McCormick Field also has the possibility of hosting an additional four post-season games.
Asheville opens the 2016 season on the road against the Greenville Drive. Following the seven-game road stint, the Tourists will open the gates of McCormick Field for the first time in 2016 on April 14 for a Thirsty Thursday matchup against the Rome Braves. This is one of 12 Thirsty Thursday games scheduled at McCormick Field throughout the season.
The marquee matchup comes on Monday, July 4, 2016 when the Asheville Tourists play host to the Lexington Legends. Fans will be able to watch the Tourists at McCormick Field on Independence Day and enjoy a Fireworks Extravaganza. Furthermore, Asheville is scheduled to host 11 Friday night and 11 Saturday night contests throughout 2016 campaign.
Nearly every one of the South Atlantic League teams will play at least one series at McCormick Field in 2016 including the brand new Columbia Fireflies, who will inhabit Asheville for the first time on June 16. The only team not making a regular season visit to the Blue Ridge is the Greensboro Grasshoppers. The Tourists will travel to all but two South Atlantic League cities for at least one road series. Not in the Tourists travel plans are trips to Lakewood and Delmarva.
The Tourists face off against their South Atlantic League rivals, the Drive, a season-high 24 times. In addition, Asheville has 20 matchups scheduled with Hagerstown after not facing the Suns once in 2015. Game times and the promotional schedule will be released at a later date.
Visit: www.milb.com for a printable view of the Tourists 2016 schedule.