The West Michigan Whitecaps, Low Class A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, have been one of if not the hottest team across all levels of minor league baseball this season. With an overall record of 81-40, they have steamrolled through the Midwest League this season.
One could say they have been as hot as this season. And on Monday, they could be actually hotter and brighter than the sun. Monday marks the first total solar eclipse in nearly 100 years. The full effect of the eclipse will be roughly around 2:30 p.m. ET, give or take 5-10 minutes.
The Whitecaps will be one of various teams across all levels of baseball playing on Monday, and one of very few to be playing during the eclipse. The ‘Caps will be on the road in Bowling Green taking on the Hot Rods.
First pitch is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. ET and those in attendance will receive eclipse-watching sunglasses. They will also see both the Whitecaps and Hot Rods donning some nifty eclipse-themed uniforms.
Whitecaps are wearing Eclipse jerseys on Monday at @BGHotRods!
Click here to find out how to bid on the jerseys – https://t.co/pqy6Sc6a3b pic.twitter.com/BkvYvOzeS7
— West Michigan Whitecaps (@wmwhitecaps) August 18, 2017
Now the eclipse will occur approximately three hours after first pitch, but the Hot Rods have provided those in attendance with proper eye wear. Remember, it is important to not look directly into the eclipse when it is taking place, as advised by NASA and by the Gods of common logic.
Here is a map provided for the teams playing on Monday across professional baseball. You can see that the Hot Rods are one of many teams playing at home, and one of four teams playing while the eclipse is going on.
Photo Credit: Jenny Goldstick | MLB.com