Spring training promotional giveaways, special events announced by O's

It wasn't so long ago that a spring training game was enough of an event to draw fans in Florida and Arizona communities that had no other access to Major League Baseball.

But times change, and even Grapefruit League games need a little creative nudge, something special to bring the fans out.

The Orioles today announced their list of promotional giveaways and special events for spring games at Ed Smith Stadium. Depending on which games you attend in Sarasota - and providing you arrive early enough and are of the right age - you might be lucky enough to walk away with a rally towel or schedule magnet (March 4), Orioles clothing hanger (March 5), Orioles luggage tag (March 11) or plush cow (March 14).

Kids can run the bases after the game against the Rays on March 14 and seniors can do the same after the Birds battle the Blue Jays on March 25. There's also youth baseball day (March 29), an all faiths food drive (March 31) and fireworks night (April 3).

Here's the full list of promotional giveaways and special events:

* March 4 vs. Detroit - Rally towel/magnet schedule presented by Visit Sarasota County (all fans); Bird of Paradise flower presented by Beneva Flowers (first 1,000 women)

* March 5 vs. Toronto - Orioles clothing hanger presented by Hung-By (first 3,000 fans, 15 and over)

* March 11 vs. Toronto - Orioles luggage tag presented by SRQ Airport (first 3,000 fans, 15 and over)

* March 14 vs. Tampa Bay - Kids run the bases presented by Schofield, Hand and Bright Orthopaedics (all fans, 14 and older, postgame); Plush cow presented by Chick-Fil-A (first 3,000 fans)

* March 17 vs. Minnesota - Go Green Day presented by Waste Pro

* March 25 vs. Toronto - Seniors run the bases (all fans 55 and over, postgame)

* March 29 vs. Minnesota - Youth baseball day presented by The Sarasota YMCA (pregame parade for preregistered youth)

* March 31 vs. Tampa Bay - All faiths food drive

* April 3 vs. Atlanta - Fireworks night presented by Coast Cadillac (postgame)