As the sun rises on March 27, 2025, Cincinnati is buzzing with excitement for the annual tradition of Opening Day, where the Cincinnati Reds will kick off their season against the San Francisco Giants. This year’s festivities promise to be particularly memorable, featuring a parade, ceremonial first pitch, and a fresh roster looking to improve upon last year’s 77-85 record.
The Reds will enter the season under the guidance of their new manager, Terry Francona, a two-time World Series champion. Francona's leadership is expected to bring a renewed sense of hope to a team that has seen significant changes during the offseason. Among the new faces joining the Reds are starting pitcher Brady Singer, infielder Gavin Lux, catcher Jose Trevino, and outfielder Austin Hays. Meanwhile, the team has traded away second baseman Jonathan India and relief pitcher Fernando Cruz since the end of the previous season.
All eyes will be on shortstop Elly De La Cruz, who stole 67 bases and hit 25 home runs in his first full MLB season last year. His performance, alongside that of starting pitcher Hunter Greene, who placed eighth in National League Cy Young voting, will be crucial for the Reds as they aim for a successful campaign.
The 2025 Findlay Market Opening Day Parade is set to kick off at noon, featuring former Reds third baseman Chris Sabo as the grand marshal. Known affectionately as "Spuds," Sabo is a beloved figure in Cincinnati, having been the 1988 National League Rookie of the Year and a 1990 World Series Champion. His presence is sure to bring nostalgia and excitement to the parade.
"Chris Sabo was a fan favorite and fans endeared themselves to him because he was all about hard work and determination," said Rick Walls, Executive Director of the Reds Hall of Fame.
This year’s parade will also include a special Olympic float showcasing current and former Cincinnati Olympians, such as Carson Foster, Annette Echikunwoke, and Mason Parris. Additionally, fans can look forward to seeing Bengals alumni like Ken Anderson and David Fulcher, along with NFL legend Anthony Munoz, who will ride on his own float for his foundation. NASCAR icon Michael Waltrip will serve as an Honorary Grand Marshal, celebrating the Reds’ upcoming game at Bristol Speedway.
As part of the festivities, forty horses will also trot through the streets, adding a lively touch to the event. The parade will follow the traditional 1.4-mile route starting at Findlay Market, proceeding down Race Street to Fifth Street, and concluding at the Taft Theater.
For those unable to attend the game, several downtown venues will host Opening Day celebrations and watch parties. The Banks will feature a free pregame block party beginning at 11 a.m., complete with food and beverages from local vendors, live music, and entertainment. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Reds Community Fund's baseball and softball outreach programs.
As the excitement builds, fans are eager to see the Reds take on the Giants at 4:10 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Ohio, which has been the Reds' TV home since 2021. The same broadcast crew returns, including play-by-play announcer John Sadak and analysts Barry Larkin, Jeff Brantley, and Chris Welsh.
In an innovative move, the Reds have partnered with FanDuel Sports Network to offer a new direct-to-consumer product, allowing fans within the Reds’ regional territory to watch live games without a cable TV subscription. The subscription offers three plans: a monthly plan for $19.99, a season pass for $105.99, and an annual pass for $189.99.
Fans heading to the Great American Ball Park can also look forward to new food offerings this season. Executive Chef Gary Davis has introduced several exciting options, including the Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco, a collaboration with Grippo’s and Montgomery Inn, featuring Saratoga-style chips topped with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and coleslaw. This dish will be available near sections 117, 133, 416, and 425.
Another must-try is the 50 West Soft Pretzel Double Cheeseburger, which combines a double smash burger with American cheese, Funacho cheese, and house mustard on a pretzel bun, served with crinkle-cut fries. This item will be available until April 30, 2025, at the 50 West Stand.
For those craving something classic, the traditional chicken wings with garlic medium or honey barbecue sauce can be found at the Food Hub near section 112. Meanwhile, the Big Mozz Chicken Parm Sandwich, featuring crispy chicken tenders, Big Mozz sticks, provolone cheese, marinara sauce, and banana peppers on a hoagie roll, will be served at Scouts Club.
And let's not forget about the Glier’s Goetta Reuben Sliders and the Reds Double Decker Glier’s Goetta Sluggers, both of which can be found at the Food Bar near sections 129 and 416. The Reds Island Griller, featuring Hempler’s sausage, pineapple salsa, and Kogi sweet garlic BBQ sauce, will be available at the Food Bar near section 109.
As for sweet treats, Rosie’s Suite Bridge Ice Cream will be serving soft-serve ice cream with various syrups and toppings from a restored Airstream trailer, located on the Suite Level along the third base side.
Weather-wise, fans should prepare for a cool day, with temperatures starting in the 40s and reaching the upper 50s by game time. While the morning looks dry, brief showers cannot be ruled out later in the day, so it's wise to bring an umbrella just in case.
With the parade festivities and the opening game against the Giants, Cincinnati is set for a memorable day filled with baseball, community spirit, and a taste of the new season ahead. As the Reds look to turn a new leaf under Francona, fans are hopeful for a season that brings excitement and success to the Queen City.
