Opening Day Bisons Shovel Through

Starting Pitcher Scott Sanders heaves one over the plate on opening day. photos by Eric Ortner

April 26th, 2000, the Buffalo Bisons played their home opener against the Ottawa Lynx and were victorious 6-2. The game included many highlights, including a 40-minute snow delay and the ceremonial first pitch being tossed by newly elected County Executive Joel Giambra. Another ceremonial ball was thrown by Hillyard Finch, a Buffalo resident, celebrating his 100th birthday. Official attendance figures registered at 13,030 tickets sold, but the actual attendance was close to 2,000 with many leaving before the end due to the weather conditions.

General Manager Mike Buczkowski helped to welcome the crowd and festivities by announcing that the Bisons have extended their agreement with the Cleveland organization through the 2002 season. Their association began with the 1995 season, and the Bisons have made four playoff appearances during their tenure. It has been a great partnership thus far and should continue to be, as Cleveland has made a commitment to have the best possible talent available, which helps to keep the Bisons competitive.

On the field, the Bisons were led with home runs by Bill Selby, Russell Branyan and Mark Whiten. Pitcher Scott Sanders started for Buffalo and pitched 4 strong innings, though not long enough to register as the winning pitcher. This was certainly a factor of the weather delay and it being early in the season. Jamie Brewing-ton, 2 years removed from major arm surgery, pitched 2 2/3 scoreless innings for the win, and Sean DePaula finished the game for his first save of the season.