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Nick Saban before throwing out the first pitch in 2010.

(Michael Casagrande/mcasagrande@al.com)

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama — The annual rite of spring is almost here.

Nick Saban's yearly walk to the mound at Sewell-Thomas Stadium will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Alabama's baseball game next Friday, April 11.

It's not just any game, either. The No. 15 Crimson Tide will play host to Auburn in the first of a three-game series at 6:35 p.m.

Dubbed "Night at the Joe," the pregame festivities will also include a performance from August Ashe outside the ballpark's main entrance. The show runs from 5-6:15 p.m.

It'll also be Faculty/Staff Night and Military Appreciation Weekend. UA workers will get in free and family members will get general admission tickets for $3. All military members with ID get in free.

Alabama plays a three-game series at Texas A&M this weekend after sweeping then-No. 9 Ole Miss at home last week.