Spring has sprung, which means the opening of other seasons as well – farmers markets (which I covered in that last blog), and RiverDogs baseball in Charleston. Charleston’s team, the RiverDogs, is a Single-A Sally league team that’s, rather ironically, part of the Yankees organization. We are securely in the South, after all.
Charleston Baseball has a Very Cool Owner
The team is co-owned by none other than the SNL alum and movie icon himself, Bill Murray, whose official title is “Director of Fun.” Bill lives in Charleston and can be seen out and about the area, photobombing unsuspecting tourists and turning up in the most unlikely places. Potential Bill Murray sightings are yet another perk of visiting the Lowcountry. As you might imagine, the Riverdogs isn’t just any team, or ballpark, or milieu. They’re known for their zany promotions and for their creative cuisine. Plus, it’s just a wholesome, very fun way to spend an afternoon or evening. It’s got something for everyone staying in your Charleston beach house, and is a fun outing for locals and visitors alike.
Go to The Joe
The RiverDogs play at “The Joe,” Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, named after Charleston’s beloved mayor. It’s a gorgeous ballpark, and they just completed a major redo of the field to make it better than ever. It’s also super convenient to get to. If you’re on the Isle of Palms, head to Highway 17, take it all the way onto the peninsula and the Crosstown, and turn right onto Lockwood. There’s plenty of parking nearby. For your GPS, it’s at 360 Fishburne Street, Charleston.
Riverdogs Baseball Officially in Play
The season technically started last week, but they were playing an away stretch (and won four out of seven games). Last night was the first home game, and they had amazing attendance. Over 8,000 folks filled the park. They’re here for a home stretch and have some fun things planned in the days ahead. Get set for:
Friday - Fan Pick Fireworks Night. Post-game fireworks show over the Ashley River/Boeing Red Shirt Friday honoring members of the military.
Saturday - NBA Draft Night. Fans can try to sink a half-court shot to win $1,000. Also Make-A-Wish SC Wish Night with the RiverDogs wearing special jerseys.
Sunday - Kids’ Opening Day/ MUSC Health Family Sunday. Kids eat free. They can play catch on the field (before the game) and run the bases (after). They’ll even get a shot at announcing the game, running cameras, working concessions, etc.
Monday - Game of Bones Dog Day. Dogs are welcome. Craft beer tasting by Bay Street Biergarten.
Tuesday - Live & Local. They’ll have a farmers market on the concourse. You can also check out Rusty Bull Brewing Co. and their new BellyItcher Ale, the RiverDogs signature brew.
Wednesday - Education Day. Students/teachers will take off from school to watch the game which starts late morning.
Check out RiverDogs baseball, with this season’s full schedule and ticket info.
Not just Hot Dogs & Cracker Jacks
But back to the food. They’re always coming up with the most interesting stuff to nosh on and sip. This year they even have their own beer. They collaborated with Rusty Bull to brew their own unique summer ale, named the BellyItcher (don’t get a pitcher, get a BellyItcher). You can only get it at the Joe. It’ll be for sale at all 70 home games. They’ve also tweaked their menu, as they do each season. New up this year: a pimento cheese and fried green tomato sandwich, steakhouse fries topped with mac and cheese, Mediterranean healthy nachos and a chicken and waffles bowl. They like to have food that’s easy to eat at the park, carry with a beverage and balance on your lap, like a hot dog but more creative. So in the spirit of Riverdogs baseball, they’re serving several dishes in a full-sized plastic dog bowl. The Dog Bone Bowl will have smoked pork rib with BBQ sauce and baked beans. You can find it and many more (including shrimp and grits) in the Bowls and Strike stand. They also have come up with a new version of their popular beer shake. This year’s offering: The Strawberry Lemonade Beer Shake, made with Natural Light’s Naturdays. So check out RiverDogs baseball, now through the summer. And remember to call EP when you’re looking for the perfect Charleston beach house. All best, Lowcountry Lisa your Isle of Palms vacation blogger