DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Both ends of the I-4 corridor had the chance to to celebrate opening day baseball on Friday. 

The Rays kicked off their season in Tampa Bay while the Cincinnati Reds Single-A affiliate Tortugas were in Daytona Beach. 

“It’s like Christmas,” explained Rachel Morton, the Tortugas new community relations and outside events manager for the team.

This is Morton’s first opening night with the Tortugas. She moved from Texas to start a new chapter in her life a few weeks ago.

“I’m just excited to be back. This is kind of like my dream job,” said Morton. “I want to stay in minor league.”

Hours before the first pitch is even thrown out, she’s doing a little bit of everything to get ready for the game.

That includes inventory in the team shop and making sure all the gear is in its proper place once the fans arrive.

“Right now I’m organizing shirts.”

Before the Tortugas, Morton worked for an independent league, so she’s no stranger to the game.

One reason she loves this sport and minor league baseball specifically is the community-driven atmosphere you get with coming to the ballpark.

Even though she’s new to the area, that close-knit environment is something she can already feel.

“There’s such a want to support the team and especially this ballpark because it is so historic,” Morton shared.

These moments are the opportunities she cherishes. 

Working in the same stadium where Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier and played his first professional game while living out her own goals and pumped up for a full season in Daytona Beach.

“Soon as the first person walks in, it’s game time. I’m ready to go, and those nerves just all go away.”

The Tortugas will have a three-game stint this weekend in Daytona Beach. It will wrap up with a family night game on Sunday at 5:35p.m..