Harvey the Rabbit is making a comeback, as the Oakland A’s are introducing a modern Harvey for the 2018 season. He will make his 2018 Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum debut on Opening Night, Friday, March 30.
Harvey the Rabbit was originally introduced in the 1960s in Kansas City, Missouri. Harvey was in the ground near home plate and would pop up throughout the game to deliver baseballs to the home plate umpire. When the A’s relocated to Oakland, Harvey the Rabbit was introduced to the Coliseum. He last appeared in 1971.
The modern Harvey the Rabbit will be remote-controlled and will maneuver his way to the field to deliver the ceremonial first pitch ball to the umpires.
“We are extremely excited to bring Harvey the Rabbit back to the Coliseum,” said A’s President Dave Kaval. “As we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary season and honor half a century of rich history in Oakland, we knew those plans had to include Harvey the Rabbit.”
On Saturday, May 26, when the team honors the Swingin’ A’s, 15,000 fans will take home a Harvey the Rabbit backpack, presented by Comerica Bank.
Images courtesy Oakland A’s.