Here’s what you need to know for the D-backs’ home opener
Apr 9, 2021, 4:25 AM
(KTAR News Photo/Tyler Drake)
(KTAR News Photo/Tyler Drake)
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks open their 2021 home schedule on Friday against the Cincinnati Reds.
It will be the first time the team has hosted fans at Chase Field since 2019 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The D-backs are allowing up to 20,000 fans to start the season. Tickets for Friday’s game are still available.
Here’s what you need to know for the opener:
Arrival
First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m.
Fans can enter the stadium starting at 5 p.m., which is 30 minutes later than when the gates typically open for home games.
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Fans will need to have clear bags when entering the ballpark to help ensure contactless entry. Those who need somewhere to store belongings can use the Binbox storage lockers that are available at the stadium.
To help promote clear bag use, the D-backs are giving them away to the first 5,000 fans for the entire three-game series against Cincinnati.
Signage on the ground and around the stadium has also been added to help promote social distancing in the concourse and around the ballpark.
Pregame Festivities
The ceremonial first pitch will be thrown out by Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ.
The D-backs will also have a tribute to front-line medical workers from Banner Heath, Dignity Health, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Steward Health Care and AMR.
A moment of silence will be held for former D-backs Vice President of Player Development Mike Bell, who died last month after a battle with kidney cancer.
The national anthem will be sung by retired U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class Steven Powell.
There will be a flyover by four F-16s from the 310th Fighter Squadron from Luke Air Force Base as the anthem ends.
Amenities
There will be new food items this season at Chase Field.
That includes a poblano cheesesteak, a beer cheese bratwurst, the ultimate pub burger, 505 green chile, chicken bacon and ranch tots, and a Danzeisen Dairy chocolate mint chip shake.
Some of the new food items coming to Chase Field this season. pic.twitter.com/RXPK3d577j
— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) March 25, 2021
Chase Field will be completely cashless, meaning tickets — which can be downloaded on the Ballpark App — food and all other purchases will be able to made digitally or via credit card.
Appropriate masks — no gaiters or handkerchiefs — are to be worn at all times when not eating and drinking.
