Date announced for Reds vs futures game

CINCINNATI - The Reds announced Thursday that the team's last spring training game will be played at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.

The April 3 Reds vs Futures game, which is part of a Spring Showcase, will give fans the opportunity to get a first look at the 2012 Reds and see the top players from the organization's minor league affiliates.

The Spring Showcase begins with an interactive workout prior to the game. Former Reds infielder Doug Flynn (1975-1977) will serve as an on-field host, while select Reds coaches and players will wear microphones and interact with fans during minor league batting practice, minor league infield practice and major league batting practice.

Special camera coverage on the scoreboard will give fans an unusual perspective on the action. The game has the flexibility to end when all pitchers have been used.

Gates will open at 5 p.m. Interactive workouts will run until the start of the game at 7 p.m. Minor league players will pse for photographs and sign autographs prior to the game.

“We believe offering this unique access to our final spring training workout and game is the perfect way to kick off Opening Week in Cincinnati,” said Reds Chief Operating Officer Phil Castellini. “Fans are anxious for baseball to begin, and what better way than to allow fans the chance to witness first-hand the hard work being done by our players and coaches in preparation for the season.”

Tickets will go on sale Saturday, Feb. 4 on reds.com , by phone at (513) 381-REDS, at the Great American Ball Park box office and at Ticketmaster Outlets, including select Kroger stores.

All seats for this family-friendly event are reduced:

• Bleachers: $5

• Sun Deck/Moon Deck: $10

• Field Box/Infield Box: $17

Tickets for the all-inclusive Diamond Club are $65, and FOX Sports Ohio Champions Club are $35.

Fans 12 and under will receive free admission to the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum.

There will be concessions and merchandise discounts throughout the ballpark.

The ceremonial first pitch will be thrown out by a fan randomly-picked from the crowd (must be in attendance by 6:45 p.m).

Minor league catcher Tucker Barnhart will receive his 2011 Rawlings Gold Glove Award during pregame ceremonies.