The Louisville Bats look to win a fourth consecutive division title when they begin their 2011 campaign Thursday, April 7th at home against the Toledo Mud Hens. This marks the 12th season as the Triple-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Since 1982 the Louisville franchise is 13-16 on opening nights, including a 5-3 win on the road at Toledo in 2010.

Manager Rick Sweet will once again lead the charge for the Louisville Bats on Opening Night as he begins his 7th season as the Bats manager and 23rd season as a Minor League manager. Sweet currently ranks 5th among active Minor League managers in all-time wins with 1515. He also starts the season only 34 wins away from 500 as a Louisville manager.

Opening Night marks the first of ten Budweiser Happy Hours in the 2011 season. Gates will open at 5:30pm with the "happy hour" running from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. The first 5,000 fans through the gates will receive a 2011 team magnetic schedule. Tickets for opening night and all other games go on sale March 1st and may be purchased online or over the phone at 502-212-2287.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

There's nothing quite like Opening Night at Louisville Slugger Field and this year we're kicking off the season with a $1 Budweiser beer "Happy Hour" from 5:30 - 7:00! In addition, the 1st 5,000 fans will receive a 2011 Team Magnetic Schedule giveaway!