Cleveland Indians Announce Festivities for ALDS Game 1 on Thursday

CLEVELAND, OH - The first game of the American League Divisional Series will be a family affair for the Franconas.

Former Indians outfielder Tito Francona, Tribe Manager Terry Francona's father, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch for Thursday's game against the Boston Red Sox. Francona played six seasons with the Indians (1959-1964), finishing fifth in MVP voting in 1959 and making the AL All-Star team in 1961.

The game will officially kick-off at 8:08 p.m. but gates open at 6 p.m. and the team is urging fans to be in their seats by 7:30 p.m. to enjoy all of the planned festivities. Fans will all receive a red rally towel upon entry, with #RallyTogether printed on it.

The Voice of the Indians, Tom Hamilton, will serve as the emcee for the on-field pregame antics. Indians scouts and player development staff members will be recognized on the field during pregame ceremonies. Cleveland singer Jon Ridinger will perform the National Anthem and students from the Cleveland Metropolitan School district will man a giant American flag during the performance.

Other festivities include:

• Color guards from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard will present the colors
• Budweiser will bring its 'Bud and Burgers' trailer to Gateway Plaza, where fans over the age of 21 can enjoy Budweiser products up until game time
• The "Mike Trivisonno Show" will broadcast live from the main concourse (near The Corner) from 3-7:30PM
• KISS FM will broadcast live from Gateway Plaza from 5 to 8 p.m.
• The band "We Are Radio" will perform live on Gateway Plaza from 5-7:30 p.m.; Destination Cleveland's "This is CLE" letters also will be on the plaza for photo opportunities
• Dueling pianos are among the activities available in First Energy Heritage Plaza (center field) pregame

Image via Rick Uldricks, Patch