While sports fans have the excitement of the NCAA men’s basketball tourney to hold their attention through Monday, April 4, the biggest news on the sports horizon is that the boys of summer are currently gearing up in spring training for what should be a national holiday, Major League Baseball’s Opening Day. Central Texas hardball lovers are in for a treat as the reigning American League Champions, the Texas Rangers, will play an exhibition game against their new AAA affiliate, our own Round Rock Express, up north on I-35 at the lovely Dell Diamond. What an excellent opportunity to get an up close look at the current stars on the Rangers squad (Ian Kinsler and Josh Hamilton?!) as well as we hope the future big-leaguers (Tanner Schep­pers, Michael Kirkman (pictured), and UT-ex Taylor Teagarden). The first 5,000 fans will receive a free American League Championship poster ta boot. Wed., March 30, 6:30pm. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley, Round Rock, 512/255-2255. $12-28. www.roundrockexpress.com.

This article appears in March 25 • 2011.

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