As the Twins prepare for their season opener against Seattle tonight -- in the final season in the Metrodome -- here is a look at some of the special things going on in conjunction with the big day:
6-9 a.m.: Breakfast on the Plaza. Fans can drive through the Metrodome Plaza to get all sorts of goodies. And they had best come hungry. Try this Breakfast of Champions: complimentary Hormel hot dogs, Old Dutch chips, Lipton Sparkling Tea, Archer Farms coffee and scones.
Some fans also will receive free tickets for the opening series, which will be given away randomly.
The Plaza will be open from 3 to 7, with food, beverages and music dominating the scene.
12-12:30 p.m.: IDS Crystal Court in Minneapolis.
Among the Twins (past and present) expected to be on hand: pitchers Glen Perkins, Kevin Slowey and Nick Blackburn, manager Ron Gardenhire and Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew.
6:30 p.m.: Pregame activities get underway on the field. Included will be a tribute to late owner Carl Pohlad and the start of a top 100 "Metrodome moments" countdown. Pohlad's sons -- Jim, Bob and Bill -- are slated to perform ceremonial first pitch honors.
DRAFT SPECULATION
Vikings' No. 1? Beat writer Judd Zulgad checks in on the upcoming NFL draft on Access Vikings:
The NFL draft is only three weeks away, and with the Vikings holding the 22nd overall pick in the first round, coach Brad Childress said his team continues to consider all of its options for what to do with that selection.
The Vikings' areas of need include right tackle, wide receiver and center. But Childress said the Vikings will use their first-round pick to take the highest-rated player on their board. "You just get in trouble if you run a guy up the board" in order to address a need, Childress said.
Get more Access Vikings at startribune.com/vikings