Baseball’s Back!
Fans are allowed in the ballpark, in limited capacity, for the 2021 Season. Phillies’ Opening Day is tomorrow, April 1st. As we leave Spring Training, here is the round-up of what to expect and who to keep on eye as America’s game returns in full force.
Fans will be allowed at the Game
Last season was difficult for fans because for the first time in a long while, fans were not allowed in the Stadium. That didn’t stop fans, Phandemic Krew, from coming and forming along the gates and honking various horns to hype up our Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies officially announced that 8,800 fans will be allowed to attend in a limited capacity, 19 games only.
But, attending baseball games will look a little different, here’s what to expect if you plan on attending any games. There is a mandatory mask policy for anyone two years and up. Masks can only be removed when eating but must be imediately put back up. Food will be distributed in closed containers to prevent any contamination. A new way to check out will be contactless payment. No cash. Instead, you can pay by card or apple, samsung pay. Social distancing will be enforced. There will be several markers reminding to keep a six foot distance and plexiglass will be provided to keep workers and fans safe.
New Bag Policy limiting items
There will be a new bag policy in effect. The policy dictates that no large bags, coolers, or backpacks will allowed. Only single compartment small clutches or purses will be allowed. The policy allows for medically neccesary bags and Diaper bags to be allowed in the stadium. If you bring bags that don’t meet the policy, you will be asked to remove them. Another option, will be a small nominal fee to place your bags and items into designated locker storage located in the ballpark.
Opening Day Game vs. Braves
A no brainer decision was made on who will start in tye opening day game. Aaron Nola starting, opening day, on the mound. Nola had 3.28 ERA, 96 SO (3rd), Career: 58-40, 3.47 ERA, 922 SO, P. Hector Neris will be closing. Right-hander Archie Bradley and left-hander José Alvarado will be Neris’ setup men.
Girardi had this to say about the following three pitchers, “I liked the way all three of them threw the ball [this spring],” Girardi said. “When you look at Archie, he’s a guy that you can ask to give multiple innings — more than three outs — on occasion. He’s comfortable doing it. He’s willing to do it. Alvarado is the lefty that I can deploy against the lefties where they are in the lineup. Héctor has closed. After a slow start last year, I thought he threw the ball pretty well, and I liked the way he threw the ball this spring.”
Still, Neris has been inconsistent and fans worry about his performance as a closer especially in close games. Neris went 2-2 with a 4.57 ERA and five saves in 24 appearances last season. Will he prevail this season.
Opening Day Timeline
- 2:05 p.m. All gates open. All fans receive a Nemours Opening Day Rally Towel. Plus, fans can take photos of the large Opening Day letters and iconic Liberty Bell as they approach the Third Base Gate.
- 2:37 p.m. Be in your seats as the Phillies officially welcome fans back to Citizens Bank Park for the 2021 season.
- 2:38 p.m. Braves introductions.
- 2:44 p.m. Phillies introductions.
- 2:53 p.m. ‘Tip Your Cap’ for frontline heroes: Each of the 41 extraordinary frontline heroes that surround Citizens Bank Park on street banners will be recognized on-field by the Phillies and Toyota.
- 2:54 p.m. All Service Honor Guard behind Section 141; the presentation of colors will represent all five branches of the military. A moment of silence will be held for members of the Phillies family who recently passed away, as well as those from across the country who lost their lives to COVID-19.
- 2:55 p.m. National anthem: Performed by Kane Kalas, son of the late Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas, at his father’s statue behind Section 141.
- 2:59 p.m. Ceremonial first pitch by 11-year-old Ellen Salome from West Chester, Pa. in honor of Nemours Children’s Health System.
- 3:05 p.m. Play ball!
The Phillies face the Braves at Citizen’s Bank Park 3:05 start. The game will be aired on NBC 10 and listen on 94 WIP.
- Ronald Acuña Jr., RF
- Ozzie Albies, 2B
- Freddie Freeman,1B
- Marcell Ozuna, LF
- Travis d’Arnaud, C
- Dansby Swanson, SS
- Austin Riley, 3B
- Cristian Pache, CF
- Max Fried, LHP
