Emeralds pay homage to Florence’s infamous moment

April 28, 2023 — On Saturday, April 22, for the second game of a doubleheader, the Eugene Emeralds, Single-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, suited up in one of their alternative identities for the 2023 season— the Exploding Whales.

Joining the Exploding Whales at PK Park in Eugene were many Florencians who made the trip to the valley for the game and to celebrate the moment in November 1970 that helped put Florence on the map. 

At this game, along with a handful of other games through the season, the Emeralds will wear Exploding Whale uniforms.

At the Exploding Whale games the Emerald organization will be providing an educational component to each night, by using videos and other forms of media to bring attention to the challenges presented by climate change and whale migration.

Those that made the trip to Eugene last Saturday went home happy as the Exploding Whales beat the Hops 4-2.

For those from Florence hoping to catch the Exploding Whales later in the season, on August 19 when the Exploding Whales host the Vancouver Canadians you can purchase tickets via www.florencehabitat.org/ and a portion of your purchase will benefit Florence Habitat for Humanity. 

For tickets and other information about the Eugene Emeralds go to www.milb.com/eugene/.