Opening Day at Chavez Ravine

With a weekend 3-game sweep of the elderly San Francisco Giants under their collective belt, the Dodgers (4-2) open their regular season home schedule at Dodger Stadium this afternoon against the Colorado Rockies (3-3). Prized off-season acquisition Jason Schmidt (1-0) is scheduled to start, and his first pitch is scheduled for 1:10pm. For those taking an extra long lunch today (and you know who you are, as this one's already sold out), here's what to know in advance of today's home opener:

Get there early, get free stuff. In a fit of generosity (and more likely in the hopes that the new parking arrangement won't be a complete disaster), the Dodgers are offering an "Early Bird Parking Special" this morning. The first 600 automobiles that carpool (minimum 4 people) and enter via Lot 15 (Academy Gate) will receive a free ticket for each passenger for a game later this season. The designated carpool entrance will open at 9:30 am (better get rolling!).

Taylor Swift will rock the house. 16-year old country star Taylor Swift (pictured) will play a 30-minute concert prior to the game. If we're lucky, Taylor will play her smash hit, "Teardrops on My Guitar". Should really get the crowd pumped up. As an added bonus, Ms. Swift will also sing the National Anthem.

There will be a military tribute including a flyby, and fireworks prior to the game. No word on whether Taylor Swift will be piloting one of the jets.

Steve Sax will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Best of luck to all those sitting in the Dugout Club for Saxy's toss. Be sure to keep your head on a swivel.

Make sure to get your Dodger Dog on before 3:10pm. To all those in the all-you-can-eat right field Pigvillion, a reminder that nacho & hot dog sales shut down 2 hours after the first pitch. Reports are that the new souvenir shop outside the right field entrance will be stocked with plenty of Tums.

Photo courtesy of Mark Humphrey AP