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Published On: June 9th, 2005

Tony Oliva To Headline Opening Night

(Mankato, MN) (Mankato, MN) The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Team, a member of the Northwoods League, is proud to announce its Home Opener, featuring Tony Oliva, will be on June 6, at 7:05 p.m. at Franklin Rogers Park against the division rival St. Cloud River Bats.

In less than two weeks, the lines will be chalked, the grills will be cooking, and the "Dog Pound” will be barking as the MoonDogs kick off their Home Opener presented by Wells Fargo. Tony Oliva will be on hand throughout Opening Day, in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Minnesota Twins 1965 World Series appearance.

Oliva adds to the list of appearances by Minnesota Twins legends on opening day. Previous guests included Hall of Fame player Harmon Killebrew in 2002, Hall of Fame announcer Herb Carneal in 2003, and World Series Champion Frank Viola in 2004.

The festivities will begin at noon on Monday, June 6, with the 4th annual MoonDogs luncheon. The luncheon will include an autograph session, as well as a question and answer period with Tony Oliva. Also, there will be a chance to meet and interact with this year’s Mankato MoonDogs players and coaches. For the second consecutive season, the luncheon will take place at the Country Inn and Suites which is conveniently located at the intersection of Highway 14 and Highway 22. Call 507-625-7047 to get your tickets today and reserve your chance to meet Tony Oliva for just $15.00.

Along with Tony Oliva throwing the Ceremonial first pitch, the Home Opener will include many activities to get fans excited for the 2005 season. A Mankato MoonDogs magnet schedule will be given to all fans in attendance courtesy of Charter and Hy-Vee. Fans may also have a chance for an autograph from Tony Oliva, and don’t forget the dazzling post-game fireworks extravaganza.

Debuting for the MoonDogs in 2005 is Muttnik, the new MoonDogs mascot. Muttnik will be, literally, unleashed to the MoonDogs fans Opening Night. "The Big Dog Movin’ In”, is trained to entertain, hug and excite fans of all ages.

Season tickets, group tickets, and single game tickets are still available through the MoonDogs Baseball Office located at 310 Belle Avenue. To reserve your night on either The Dog Pound or The Realty Executives Loft, call the MoonDogs Baseball Ticket Office at 507-625-7407. For any more news, game reports, or information check out www.mankatomoondogs.com.