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When it comes to entertaining fans, baseball’s minor leagues have a history of stepping up to the plate. Most teams host base-running events for kids, heritage game days and bobblehead giveaways — besides scheduling several fireworks nights a season. And then there are the signature events, with on and off the field antics. Here’s a roundup of fun ones:
San Jose Giants: Dia de Los Churros
Churros are so popular with fans at the San Jose Giants’ Excite Ballpark that the team honors the sweet legacy on not one but five game days. It’s all in tribute to Hipolito Cerda, the man who has been making them fresh for decades at his Olimpos Churros stand just off the third-base line. On Dia de los Churros, the players wear jerseys and hats featuring cartoon churro characters. Giveaways this season include churro ornaments on Christmas in July Night on July 24, Hawaiian shirts at the Aug. 17 Margaritaville Night and wizard scarves at Harry Potter Night on Aug. 30. Details: www.milb.com/san-jose
Rancho Cucamonga Quakes: ‘Friends’ TV Show Night
The Quakes’ LoanMart Field invites fans of the hilarious TV sitcom characters Chandler, Phoebe, Ross, Monica, Joey and Rachel to the ballpark on June 21 for photo opportunities, specialty jerseys — and a game against the Inland Empire 66ers. The first 1,500 people through the gate will receive a “Friends” mug. More fun: A number of Bark in the Ballpark events are scheduled for this season. The pet-friendly seats are located on the first-base side of the stadium. Details: www.milb.com/rancho-cucamonga
Stockton Ports: Asparagus Night
When you’re the Asparagus Capital of the World, you can’t ignore those springtime stalks. The A’s single-A affiliate celebrates Stockton’s biggest crop with Asparagus Night festivities that in the past have included Ports players in dark-green jerseys emblazoned with asparagus, asparagus trivia on the Banner Island Ballpark scoreboard, asparagus mascot races and, of course, deep-fried asparagus, bacon-wrapped asparagus and more. Mark April 20, on your calendar for this year’s event. Other great promotions include Luau Night on May 3, with a Hawaiian shirt giveaway, and a Martial Arts Night on May 31, when fans will receive free Karate Splash bobbleheads. Details: www.milb.com/stockton
Modesto Nuts: Pups & Pints
You, your best canine buddy, beer discounts — and a baseball game! At every Thursday home game of this Seattle Mariners affiliate, the Pups & Pints hangout at Modesto’s John Thurman Field doubles as an off-leash dog park. When you’re ready to watch the game, you leash up and head to seating in one of the dog-designated sections. Keep in mind that if you decide to attend, you will need to sign a legally binding waiver that requires you to take responsibility for your pooch at all times. And no, the players batting cleanup will not be taking on that duty when it comes to your dog. Details: www.milb.com/modesto
Sacramento River Cats: Princess & Pirate Night
Storytelling rules in West Sacramento at Sutter Health Park, home of the Giants’ Triple-A affiliate. Look for princesses and pirates to fill the stands at one game this season and mini-Harry Potters at another game (dates, activities to be announced). Giveaway nights for the first 2,500 fans through the gate will include a 25th River Cats anniversary replica jersey on June 21 and a Dinger coffee mug on July 19. Dinger, of course, is the team’s personable mascot. Speaking of cuddly, Wet Nose Wednesday is a weekly invitation to watch the game with your dog on Home Run Hill. Details: www.milb.com/sacramento
Fresno Grizzlies: Meet Bluey & Bingo Night
This jam-packed lineup may have you vacationing in Fresno so you can catch these events at Chukchansi Park, home to this Single A-affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. We predict an early-season sellout April 13 for Meet Bluey & Bingo Night featuring the adorable Aussie characters who appeal to both kids and parents. May 25 has been named Fresno Parks & Rec Night, and actor-comedian Jim O’Heir (who played Jerry Gergich on TV’s “Parks and Recreation”) will be in attendance. The Grizzlies will celebrate Latino and lowrider culture with the three-day Fiesta Oso with the Lowriders de Fresno, July 19-21. Among the many events honoring community heroes will be the April 12 one titled My Job Depends on Ag, with a Fresno tribute jersey giveaway. Details: www.milb.com/fresno
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