This is the year. IUP can feel it.
After two strikes in a pair of previous attempts to play the Altoona Curve in an exhibition game, IUP baseball is set to host the Pirates Class AA affiliate at 1:30 p.m. April 1 at Peoples Natural Gas Field in Altoona.
No April Fools, although that would seem apropos. The game was postponed because of inclement weather the last two years.
“Weather has not been kind to us the previous two attempts,” IUP coach Anthony Rebyanski said. “This game will allow our student-athletes to compete against professional athletes in one of the best minor league facilities in the country, along with giving the Curve the opportunity for one last tune up before opening their season later that week.”
Only Curve pitchers will be used in the game. IUP will play regular defensive players, otherwise.
“I believe that the third time is the charm,” Curve manager Mike Ryan said. “To have the opportunity to play against hungry and energetic players is so valuable to our team. I am honored that Anthony has agreed to give us this opportunity.”
Ryan said the event carries additional benefits than game reps.
“I’m sure that this game can and will help Anthony with future recruiting, as I would like to make this game a tradition for many years to come,” Ryan said. “IUP baseball carries a very rich tradition and we are honored to be a part of that tradition for a day.”
Bill Beckner is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Bill at bbeckner@tribweb.com or via Twitter @BillBeckner.
