Kids Can Get Ticket to O's Game For Reading

Children can get a free ticket to an upcoming Baltimore Orioles spring training game and all they have to do is read.

 and the Baltimore Orioles are teaming up to promote reading through the Orioles Big League Reader program.

Children who sign up for the program and read three or more books in the month of February will receive a reserved grandstand ticket to the Wednesday, March 14 game versus the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Last season more than 100 Sarasota-area children completed the program and were eligible to receive a free ticket to an Orioles spring training game.

March 14 is also “Kids Run the Bases” Day presented by Schofield, Hand & Bright Orthopaedics; following the game, all kids 14 and under will be invited onto the field to take their turn running the bases.

“Just like rounding the bases in a ballgame, each time a child reads a book they advance further on the road to success.” said Sarabeth Kalajian, general manager of the Sarasota County library system.

During February children ages 6 and up who check out three books from any of the nine Sarasota County public libraries will receive a Home Run Reading Card. Upon reading the books and returning them to the library, a library staff member will initial their reading card, which is good for a reserved grandstand ticket to the March 14 game at .

“The Orioles are excited to once again partner with Sarasota County libraries to promote a love of both reading and baseball among area youth,” said Orioles Director of Florida Operations Laura Williams. “Last year’s program was a great success and we look forward to rewarding even more youth who embrace reading this spring.” 

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask about the Big League Reader program.