It's official. The San Diego Padres will be stopping off in El Paso on March 31, 2016 to play an exhibition game against the Chihuahuas at Southwest University Park. The announcement was made earlier today by executives from both organizations at Southwest University Park.

"We look forward to welcoming the Padres to Southwest University Park and providing an opportunity for our incredible fans to experience the excitement of hosting a Major League team in El Paso," said MountainStar Sports President Alan Ledford. "The Padres have been very supportive of everything we've done here in El Paso, and we certainly appreciate all they've done."

The last time El Paso hosted a Major League team for an exhibition game was March 27, 2003, when the Arizona Diamondbacks played a split squad game at Cohen Stadium. "Southwest University Park is one of the best venues in Minor League Baseball, and we know the fans in El Paso create an unforgettable game environment here," said Padres President and CEO Mike Dee. "The players and coaches who have played here in the past are looking forward to returning, and those who have not are looking forward to experiencing it firsthand, as we make our first trip to El Paso."

Tickets for the game are expected to sell out fast. Chihuahuas' 2016 season seat holders and Paw-tial Plan Holders will be able to purchase their tickets for the exhibition game. To purchase Season Seats or Paw-tial Plans, please call (915) 533-BASE to speak to an account executive.

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