Rockies, Mariners to play exhibition game in S.L.

SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake Bees officials announced Thursday that the Colorado Rockies and Seattle Mariners will play an exhibition game at Spring Mobile Ballpark on Saturday, March 30. The game marks the first time two major league teams have played an exhibition contest in Salt Lake since the mid-1960s, and it will be the first appearance by a major league team in Salt Lake since the Salt Lake Buzz faced the Minnesota Twins in an exhibition matchup in 1999.

Both clubs will make their final preparations for the 2013 season at Spring Mobile Ballpark before opening the regular season two days later on April 1.

"Since my father purchased the Salt Lake franchise in 2005, our organization has been committed to offering the Salt Lake community a first-class baseball experience," said Greg Miller, CEO of Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment in a released statement. "It has been more than 40 years since a Major League Baseball game has been held in Salt Lake City and we're excited to provide this unique opportunity to fans throughout the state of Utah."

Open batting practice times will be announced at a future date.

"As an organization, it is our privilege to deliver fans an exclusive opportunity to attend a Major League Baseball exhibition game right here in Salt Lake City," said Bees general manager Marc Amicone. "We welcome the Rockies and Mariners, and look forward to an exciting matchup and kickoff to the 2013 Salt Lake Bees season."

Both clubs will make their final preparations for the 2013 season at Spring Mobile Ballpark before opening the regular season two days later on April 1.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. and may be purchased online at slbees.com, at all Smith'sTix outlets and by calling 801-355-SEAT.