Now that football's over, it's time to turn our attention to America's favorite pastime. In preparation for Opening Day of the Flying Squirrels' 2025 season, our real estate agents take a look at the past and present of this popular Minor League Baseball team that plays their games not far from Richmond homes for sale. 

About the Richmond Flying Squirrels

• In 2010, one year after the Richmond Braves moved to Lawrenceville, GA, minor league baseball returned to the city when the Connecticut Defenders relocated to RVA.
  
  
• The name "Flying Squirrels" was chosen through a contest sponsored by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Other names considered in the final round included the Rock Hoppers, Rhinos, and Hush Puppies.
  
  
• As part of the Southwest Division in the Eastern League, the Flying Squirrels are a Double-A affiliate of MLB's San Francisco Giants. The team currently holds the MiLB record for longest distance from their parent club, coming in at a continent-spanning 2,872.5 miles.
  
  
• The award-winning Flying Squirrels logo was designed to approximate the shape of Virginia. In the spot where the squirrel's heart would be, corresponding with Richmond's geographic placement within the state, an "R" sits atop an acorn.
  
  
• Since day one, the Diamond has hosted all Flying Squirrels home games. 2025 marks your last chance to visit the venerable stadium, as CarMax Park is set to debut in 2026. The new state-of-the-art facility, intended to be an anchor of the Diamond District, will be a multi-use entertainment venue for concerts, festivals, and community events, as well as a space for weddings, conferences, and other private events. 
  
  
• Notable major leaguers who wore the Flying Squirrels uniform include shortstop Brandon Crawford, a 12-year veteran of the Giants and member of the 2012 and 2014 championship teams, and Logan Webb, All-Star pitcher, and Cy Young finalist despite being classified as legally blind. 

Opening Day 2025

• The Flying Squirrels will take the field for their home opener against the Akron RubberDucks, 2024 Eastern League Southwest Division champions, on Friday, April 4.
  
  
• Special guest is iconic Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz, a member of Richmond's original MiLB team of the same name. In addition to being selected for eight MLB All-Star Games, Smoltz is one of seven former Richmond players to be elected to the MLB Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Smoltz is scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitch of the game at 6:30 p.m.
  
  
• Gates open at 5 p.m., and game time is 6:35 p.m. Individual tickets are $10-$15, with multi-admission packages running from $160 to $800+ for additional perks such as parking passes, Flying Squirrels swag, and Party Pavilion seating with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Upcoming Season

• Like most minor-league teams, the Flying Squirrels offer several special events and giveaways throughout the season. One major series is "The Diamond through the Decades," as the team celebrates the 40th anniversary of their stadium. Planned giveaways include the Diamond replica figurines and bobbleheads of former players, with classic retro jerseys and t-shirts on sale. Visit the Flying Squirrels website or Facebook page for the latest information on special events.
  
  
• Planning a family reunion or get-together with friends? The Diamond features a full range of group seating options, from the Bullpen Deck and Brewski's 804 Corner Cantina to Hogan Groups Party Decks and Luxury Suites, that enhance the ballpark experience. 
  
  
• Tailgating isn't just for football. With a minimum of 20 guests, enjoy a 90-minute all-you-can-eat buffet at the Cross Timbers Roofing Party Pavilion.

Whether you're buying or selling a home in Richmond, we can turn it into a grand slam. Contact us at Napier ERA to learn more.