Sand Gnats open home schedule

SAVANNAH, Ga. -- The Savannah Sand Gnats (3-2) will open the home portion of the 2008 season this Friday when the Columbus Catfish stroll in for a four-game series. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the first 1,000 fans will receive a 2008 Magnet Schedule courtesy of St. Joseph's/Candler.

Friday night, fans will be treated to a postgame fireworks presented by KIX96 and a rendition of the national anthem sung by American Idol's Stephanie Edwards. The Gnats will also have Mr. Magic entertaining on the concourse throughout the game. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Saturday night is Effingham Community Night at Historic Grayson Stadium presented by St. Joseph's/Candler. Residents of Effingham County can pick up free tickets courtesy of St. Joseph's/Candler at the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce building. Fans who bring in a can food item also can receive a free general admission ticket to the game. Postgame fireworks will light up the Savannah sky after the 7 p.m. contest.

Sunday will be the first home day game of 2008. It is a BIG CW Kid's Sunday presented by BIG 98.3 and CW. Kids can play catch on the field prior to the 2 p.m. start time and run the bases and receive payer autographs after the game.

Savannah continues its eight-game road swing with the second game of a four-game series with the RiverDogs tonight in Charleston. On the hill for Savannah will be Opening Day starter Michael Antonini (1-0, 0.00 ERA), who looks to continue his solid start to 2008. First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m. from The Joe in Charleston.