The San Rafael Pacifics (independent; North American League) will be playing one of the more unusual exhibitions ever: in May they’ll be playing an All-Star squad of San Quentin State Prison inmates.
San Quentin State Prison baseball coach Kent Philpott issued the invitation; the game is set for May 19, 2012.
The game will serve as the official Opening Day of the San Quentin baseball season. Philpott, in his 30th year working at the prison — and entering his 17th season as baseball coach — said he will select the 20 best players from the four San Quentin teams. He also anticipates a crowd of approximately 800 inmate fans to be on hand.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to play at San Quentin,” said Pacifics coach Mike Marshall. “If we can bring some competition and normalcy and the joy of the game, we are happy to do it. We look forward to it.”
The game is expected to take place approximately between 9 a.m. and noon, with the East Gate to the prison opening at 8:30 a.m.
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