Cobb Reporter

Rome, Ga., known for its seven hills and intersecting rivers, draws parallels to its Italian namesake. The city's Minor League Baseball team, the Rome Emperors, unveiled this identity last offseason after two decades as the Braves. The South Atlantic League team plays at AdventHealth Stadium.

On June 18, a visit to the ballpark coincided with a game against the Greenville Drive. Julius, an emperor penguin mascot introduced this season, has inspired a celebratory dance called “The Waddle.” AdventHealth Stadium opened in 2003 and features a brick-columned exterior and seating extending from third base into shallow right field.

Before the game began, Justin Franklin, Emperors marketing and media relations coordinator, invited me to throw the first pitch. Although I had retired from ceremonial pitches in 2021, I accepted due to MLB content creator Kathryn Skeean's presence.

A pregame highlight included meeting Larry Gardner, the team's new PA announcer. Known on Twitter as @lg4RealTho, Gardner previously auditioned for Atlanta’s PA announcer role but was not selected despite winning a fan vote. His warm voice now enhances the Emperors' games.

Fans received Taylor Swift-inspired T-shirts listing the Emperors’ 2024 road schedule like tour dates. Longtime supporters Ernie and Nancy Studdard were present; they have been with the team since its inception.

Usher Steve Green shared his journey from being drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers to coaching youth baseball and working at AdventHealth Stadium during retirement. He introduced John and Katie Binesh, who attend nearly every game.

Patrick Larson served as my Designated Eater for the evening. Larson praised several food items including Extreme Nachos and Brutus Burger. Despite all activities off-field, the Emperors secured a 1-0 victory over Greenville Drive thanks to Adam Zebrowski’s home run in the ninth inning.

The following day saw them clinch their division title.

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