The Sioux City Explorers open a new season in a new league, tonight, when they host St. Paul. After being part of the Northern League since 1993 the Explorers are now part of the American Association independent league and play in the North division with St. Paul, St. Joe, Lincoln and Sioux Falls.
The south division has three teams in Texas along with a team in Shreveport, Louisiana and Pensacola, Florida.
Ed Nottle who returns as Sioux City manager says the two leagues should do well in the next couple of years. Nottle says though the league may demand that some franchises upgrade.
He says most of the games will be against division foes with two trips to Forth Worth and Pensacola. Nottle says this team is a mix of veterans and newcomers, which he says is the norm in the league as you’re only allowed so many veterans. A fireworks show will also be part of opening night.