Thursday, 2 June, 2011 6:59
by Chris Jay
Captain Jack marauding amongst Shreveport-Bossier Captains fans at Fair Grounds Field.
I'm not going to lie to you, reader: I have no idea how people can watch baseball on television. My attention span is just too short. But live baseball is an entirely different story, and Shreveport-Bossier has a real entertainment gem in our local professional baseball team, the Shreveport-Bossier Captains. The defending champions in their league, the Captains will play nearly 50 home games this summer. General admission tickets are only $5, and many nights discounts are available for women and children (check out their promotions schedule).
Here, in the most succinct terms possible, are the top three reasons I'm a fan of Captains baseball:
1) Shreveport-Bossier fans love to abuse the visiting team
Once these folks learn the visiting pitcher's first name, it's all over but the crying. I saw an 80 year-old woman set down her roasted peanuts, stand up, and yell: "You suck, Juan!" at El Paso Diablos pitcher Juan Medina on Monday. It made my night.
2) Shelton "Preacher" Parsons, refreshment vendor
At 75 years old, "Preacher" Parsons has been vending ice cold beer, soft drinks, chips and peanuts from a mobile cart for 35+ years. He knows more beer-related jokes than anyone else on the planet. Just ask for one, they're free - but tips are very much appreciated.
3) Captain Jack
How many cities have Captain Jack Sparrow as the mascot for their local baseball team? This guy earns whatever pay he receives and then some, constantly climbing over seats to roughhouse with fans or high-five kids. Yarrrr!
The Captains continue their series against El Paso tonight at 7:05 p.m., as well as Friday and Saturday nights. Go out and hurl some insults at Juan! Click here for directions to Fair Grounds Field.