Fan Fest 2023 - The Party Before the Storm
The Ogden Raptors kicked off their highly anticipated 2023 season with a thrilling fan-contested homerun derby at Lindquist Field, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead. Following the derby, the Raptors engaged in a captivating exhibition game against the Independent Club Blacksox, showcasing an impressive display of small ball and aggressive baserunning. The electric atmosphere, coupled with the team's performance, made fan fest 2023 an unforgettable start to the season. As the Raptors gear up for their 30th anniversary season, they look forward to their opening game against the Grand Junction Jackalopes on May 23rd, fueled by the unwavering support of their devoted fans.
The Ogden Raptors kicked off the 2023 season festivities with a bang last night, inviting fans down to Lindquist Field to swing for the fences themselves in a fan-contested homerun derby! Fans, fanatics, and Raptors enthusiasts alike all took their shots to hit one moonshot to win free season tickets. While over 20 contestants competed, the batter leading off the Derby, Kole Story was the first and only slugger to hit a long ball; Keep that swing up and we might just see you in a uniform next time you’re on the field. Congratulations Kole!
To follow up the Derby, the Raptors held an exhibition game against the Independent club Blacksox. While it did end in a 7 to 7 tie, it was a back-and-forth battle of small ball, with 5 total lead changes by the end of the game and lots of traffic left on base. Each side recorded an error and 9 hits, the loudest of these coming off the bat of 1st baseman Trevor Rogers in the 6th inning as he launched a 3-run shot to the deepest part of the park in right-center field, over the 40-foot wall, to give the Raptors the lead for their 3rd time in the game.
With great backing from the fans, delicious food from Hardball Cafe, and exciting play from the Raptors 2023 lineup, fan fest made for a very special start to the anniversary season. The Ogden Raptors 2023 regular season begins this Tuesday, May 23rd against the Grand Junction Jackalopes; First pitch is tossed at 6:30 MST. We appreciate the endless support we get from the fans each year, and can’t wait to get our 30th anniversary season underway and off to a fast start!