BOISE -- The Boise Hawks began a new era Thursday night.
Under new ownership and a new affiliation, the Colorado Rockies, the Boise Hawks opened the 2015 season with new faces, new amenities and a bat-fetching dog, Kohl.
The Hawks, hosting the San Diego Padres affiliate, the Tri City Dust Devils at Memorial Stadium, had Boise State senior football stars and members of the 2014 Fiesta Bowl champion team Donte Deayon and Armand Nance on hand to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
Former Rocky Mountain star Mason Smith was able to make his debut with the Dust Devils in his hometown with over 70 friends and family in the stands.
Though it wasn't in the cards for Smith on opening night, going 0-3 at the plate, the Dust Devils struck first in the top of the fifth.
After a foul ball by Smith, the Hawks get the Devils' runner on first trying to steal. However, the Devils' runner on third was able to score, giving the Devils the first lead of the game.
The Hawks strike back later that inning. Richard Prigantano hits the ball just past the Devils' second baseman, bringing home Terry McClure to tie the game.
McClure would strike again in the bottom of the seventh inning with the game winning RBI.
The Hawks defeat the Dust Devils 3-1 on opening night.
The three-game series continues tomorrow night at Memorial Stadium at 7:15 p.m.
