DETROIT – Thursday was a day of adjustment for Detroit Tigers fans and players.
Only 8,000 people were allowed to enter Comerica Park to watch game live on Opening Day due to COVID restrictions. Additionally, restaurants and bars are currently at a 50% capacity.
Some fans celebrated several years of attending the first home game of the season and others kept a tradition of allowing their kids to take a day off from school to attend.
“Today’s my 45th Opening Day. It’s good to see the people out. Everybody’s here for a good reason, they’re happy,” said one fan.
The players were in a good mood post-game, not only for their win against the Cleveland Indians, but also for the energy from the fans.
“There was a lot of energy... It was almost playoffs like. It felt like it was a packed house today, just based on the crowds we played with last year. It was special. We’re really grateful to be playing in front of the best fans in baseball,” said pitcher Matthew Boyd.
Restrictions for future game days
With a different Opening Day due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials said certain aspects will change in the future.
Many people come to the stadium to tailgate or watch the game outside of the stadium. However, Chris Lawrence, vice president of park operations, said that will not be allowed.
“For the foreseeable future, tailgating will be prohibited,” Lawrence said. “That will be policed, it will be prohibited.”
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Officials said in order to enter the stadium, fans will need to fill out a game day wellness survey in addition to having a ticket. Cloth or medial masks are required and must be worn at all times. Seating will be social distanced.
When it comes to food and drink, a limited number of concession stands will be operating. Lawrence said eating and drinking is only allowed in designated stadium seats or dining areas.
“We are a cashless facility now. So all the way from parking to your food and beverage or your retail experience, it’s all going to be cashless,” he said.
Lawrence said a reverse ATM will be available to people who do not have a credit or debit card -- an ATM that allows people to convert cash into a card.