In case you missed it, the first game of the 2012 Major League Baseball season occurred this morning between the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners.  For many of you, it may have been over before you even got out of bed.

The first pitch happened at 6:10 AM, which is 3:10 AM on the west coast, where both teams are based.

Quite frankly, I find it ridiculous that MLB decided to open its season a full week before the US MLB opener in Miami.  Even more ridiculous is that it had to take place in Japan, and was scheduled at the most inconvenient possible time for fans to watch.

The Athletics have to play as the ‘home’ team, even though the crowd was overwhelmingly cheering for the Mariners, due to the Ichiro factor.

What’s worse, is after these two games in Japan that count in the standings, both teams have to go back to playing Spring Training games again.  I just don’t understand the whole timing of this ‘Opening Series,’ and I don’t like it.

How about you?

That being said, there was a pretty good game played today.  The Mariners ended up winning 3-1 in 11 innings thanks to the heroics of Ichiro, who went 4 for 5:

And this guy:

Dustin Ackley.

He connected for the first home run of the MLB season.

A drive to deep center field.

And this was the lucky fan to end up with it:

She doesn’t look like much of a ballhawk, but kudos to her for her snagging ability.

The real Opening Day doesn’t kick off for 8 more days, so look for another contest later today!

Also, you can win this Andrew McCutchen shirt, just be commenting.

And here’s your updated Pittsburgh weather forecast for Opening Day:

Great news, the showers they had in the forecast have been moved up a day!