“For me, personally, it’s extremely exciting,” said the 22-year-old Smith. “I’ve been to several Reds game over the years, ... but not once can I remember have the Reds come to Middletown. Not only will this be a first opportunity for many, but for myself as well.”
From 11 a.m. to noon Friday, the trio of Reds will be at the Middletown Kroger Marketplace, 3420 Towne Blvd., as part of a 2012 Reds Pass-Port autograph event. The key to the city presentation will be conducted at the beginning of the event, Smith said.
For $25, Reds fans will receive a 2012 Pass-Port book — which allows patrons to receive special stamps at Reds games and has an autograph section — and six autographs. Visitors will be allowed to get autographs in the Pass-Port and on one additional item.
The event is being organized by Middletown native and Pass-Port creator Tim Parks.
“I think it’s great for the city of Middletown and it puts the spotlight on us,” he said. “It’s nice to be able to do something here in the city.”
Parks recalls the last Reds to visit Middletown were Reds legends Tony Perez and George Foster in the early 1980s.
The Reds open their 2012 season against the Miami Marlins at 4:05 p.m. today at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. Anyone who attended and did not have a Pass-Port for the game will receive an Opening Day stamp as long as they show their ticket stub.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2175 or michael.pitman@coxinc.com. Follow at
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