News release from the TinCaps:
Jessie Bates III Coming to Parkview Field on Thursday
Fort Wayne Native, Cincinnati Bengal to Sign Autographs & Throw First Pitch(July 3, 2018) — The TinCaps will host Cincinnati Bengals defensive back Jessie Bates III at Parkview Field on Thursday, July 5 as the team hosts the Great Lakes Loons for a 7:05 p.m. game.
Bates attended Snider High School in Fort Wayne and then Wake Forest University. He was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft in April. Bates will be signing autographs on the concourse behind home plate and interacting with fans from 5:45-6:45 before throwing out a ceremonial first pitch. The first 50 people to arrive for the autograph session will receive a free JB3 t-shirt.
“It will be awesome for me to connect with everyone who has continued to support me in Fort Wayne,” Bates said.
Bates was a two-time all-state selection at Snider High School. He went on to play two seasons for the Demon Deacons after redshirting in his freshman year. He was voted a consensus Freshman All-American in 2016. In his career with Wake Forest, Bates recorded 177 tackles, six interceptions, 10 pass deflections, and two forced fumbles.
“It will be an honor to meet and host Jessie, and we are so excited that he is coming out to Parkview Field,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “We are all proud of what Jessie has accomplished, and we can’t wait to watch him as he moves forward with his NFL career.”
Bates will join a growing list of NFL players to visit Parkview Field. In the last four years, the TinCaps have also hosted Fort Wayne native Jaylon Smith of the Cowboys, as well as Indianapolis Colts players T.Y. Hilton, Adam Vinatieri, Jack Doyle, Jacoby Brissett, Darius Butler, Matt Overton, Clayton Geathers, David Parry, and Pat McAfee.
Thursday’s game is also a Thirsty Thursday presented by Rudy’s, featuring $1 domestic draft beers and other drink specials. In addition, there will be Postgame Fireworks presented by Colony Bay Apartments.
Tickets are available at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, or visiting the Parkview Field Ticket Office.
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