Orioles select Marie Selby Botanical Gardens as partner for 2015 "Go Green" Day, green cap auction

The Orioles have selected Marie Selby Botanical Gardens as the ballclub's partner for "Go Green" Day on Tuesday, March 17 when the Orioles take on the Minnesota Twins at 1:05 p.m. at Ed Smith Stadium. Selby Gardens, a world-renowned botanical research center and leader in environmental education, will benefit from an online auction of specially-designed, green O's caps autographed by players. The caps will be worn during the St. Patrick's Day game, which is presented by Waste Pro.

"The Orioles are proud to partner with Selby Gardens, one of the Sarasota area's most treasured attractions and a world leader in environmental education, as we celebrate 'Go Green' Day at Ed Smith Stadium," said David Rovine, Vice President of Orioles-Sarasota. "The stadium is a showcase for sustainable building practices, which we demonstrate year-round. This special focus during spring training, along with the auction benefiting a local environmental organization, highlights for our fans the importance of thinking 'green' in our everyday lives."

"This dynamic partnership with the Orioles will benefit our international botanical research, conservation, horticulture displays and educational programs, while attracting new audiences to our breathtaking, bayfront oasis," said Jennifer O. Rominiecki, CEO and President of Selby Gardens.

More than 130,000 guests visit Selby Gardens annually to relax, learn, explore and experience the plants and educational programs available 364 days a year. Selby Gardens is a 15-acre botanical and children's rainforest wonderland nestled in an urban setting on the shores of Sarasota Bay. Specializing in epiphytes, it is home to the world's largest living collection of epiphytes and other tropical plants. Through educational outreach and horticultural displays, Selby Gardens promotes understanding of the natural world and stimulates advocacy for plant habitat conservation.

Orioles fans and Selby Gardens supporters may bid online for the caps at www.orioles.com/spring from 1:05 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17 through Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 p.m.

Ed Smith Stadium uses environmentally-friendly practices including recycling, reclaimed water for toilets and irrigation, solar panels and roofing materials that conserve energy, and preferred parking for car pooling and fuel-efficient vehicles. The Orioles also are a partner in Sarasota County's "Green Business Partnership" program. Additional information on the Orioles' commitment to the environment at Ed Smith Stadium can be found at www.orioles.com/sarasota.