Gentlemen, and Ladies, Start Your Engines...

The Pirates/Marauders 2012 seasons are gearing up, much like NASCAR will be next Sunday at Daytona.

The Pirates arrived in Bradenton to begin Spring Training and the fans will participate in their first big celebration Saturday, Feb. 25, on Main Street downtown as the Pirtes host the 3rd annual "Pirates Pep Rally".

Pirates players and coaches will be there, giving motivational speeches and signing autographs for the fans!

There'll be lots of game and activities for the kids (of all ages) so be sure to mark your calendar and make plans to come out and support your 2012 Pirates.

About a month later the Pirates, will have their annual Bradenton "PirateFest" in front of McKechnie Field. The event takes place Saturday, March 24, starting at 10 a.m. The streets will be closed off, players will be signing autographs, food will be available, games will be played and a general 'rah-rah' atmosphere will be had by all.

Immediately after the "Piratefest" there will a 1:05 p.m. game versus the Houston Astros. You can buy tickets at the gate during and after "Piratefest"

The Marauders open the 2012 season at home on April 5th versus the St. Lucie Mets. Gates open at 5:30pm, game time is at 6:30 p.m.