Even though the Washington Wild Things baseball team isn't scheduled to open its season until May 15, umpires have been yelling "play ball" for at least a month.

Consol Energy Park -- home of the Wild Things, a member of the 12-team Frontier League ­-- also serves as the home field for teams from California University of Pennsylvania and Trinity High School and is used sporadically by other regional college and high school teams, according to Chris Blaine, director of marketing.

The park seats roughly 3,200 patrons, not counting those in the luxury suites, picnic area and lawn, where they can opt to sit on a blanket in the grass and watch their favorite local baseball team in action.

"One of the advantages we have over the major leaguers is that we try to bring back the romance of early baseball," Ms. Blaine said.

"Our players are here because they're chasing a dream and playing because they love the sport," she said.

Now beginning their eighth season, the Wild Things are not affiliated with any major league teams and are generally thought of as playing Class A baseball.

As a member of an independent rookie league, all Wild Things players must retire or move on when they reach the age of 27.

The Wild Things advanced to the playoffs in six of our seven previous seasons," general manager Russ Vecchio said. "Although we missed the playoffs last year by only three games with a record of 48 wins and 48 losses, we're still the winningest team in the league -- ever."

With the home opener looming, management has been busy rebranding the team.

Several promotions are on hand to "liven up the ballpark," managing partner Frani Williams said.

Each Monday, the Wild Things will promote major league ballplayers living in the area by inviting them in to meet fans.

At every Tuesday home game the team will give away a used automobile, and at every Wednesday home game, fans will have a chance to win a Nintendo Wii. Thursdays will feature dollar beverages (soft drinks and beer) and Friday games will conclude with a fireworks display.

In addition, "at every home game during the regular season, one fan will win $100," Ms. Williams said.

Before every game, management will also present the "Field of Dreams," in which players from area baseball teams can run out to their positions before the National Anthem and, after every game, fans can meet the players.

According to Ms. Williams, management has planned a winning 2009 season and takes pride in the fact that ticket prices are very affordable and, in most cases, less expensive than taking in a film at a movie theater.

"Currently, we're in the process of putting the team together, and we like what we've got," said Mr. Vecchio. "Something that makes the Wild Things even more interesting is the fact that the team has three or four players on the roster from the Pittsburgh area, which gives it a local flavor."

The Washington Wild Things begin their 2009 home season with exhibition games starting May 15.

The regular season home opener is May 22. Tickets range from $4 to $12 for a seat behind home plate.

For more information and a complete schedule, call 866-456-WILD (9453) or visit www.washingtonwildthings.com.