We both took the afternoon off this past Thursday to watch opening day baseball. Though we don't live in Ohio any more, we ordered the MLB Extra Innings package so we can watch Reds games from New Jersey. We went all-out in our preparation for this game - some strategic grocery shopping ensured our house in Ramsey, New Jersey felt just like being at Great American Ball Park.
First, we bought some cheddarwurst and threw those on the grill for our pre-game meal; we had two cans of Gold Star Chili remaining from our last trip to Ohio, and we made chili-cheese coneys with those 'wursts. We also made a batch of chili-cheese dip to munch on. Charlie also picked up a 6-pack of Brooklyn Pennant Ale '55 to go with the theme. It's not the same as Hudepohl Delight, but you can't get that at Great American anyways.
Initially it looked like opening day was going to be a loss for the Redlegs - the first two Milwaukee batters hit home runs. But, by the end of the game, the Reds did not disappoint! Though they trailed the whole game, Cincinnati loaded the bases in the 9th and scored a run to get within 6-4. Ramon Hernandez hit a walk-off home run to give the Reds the win, 7-6. It was exciting, and we're hoping the Reds can successfully defend their NL Central Division Title from last year!!
We finished up the day by watching some more baseball and made another ballpark favorite - Beef Nachos with our own homemade nacho cheese sauce! A delicious day and a Reds victory!
