Orioles will allow roughly 11,000 fans to begin 2021 season originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
Fans will be in the stands when the Baltimore Orioles host the Boston Red Sox on April 8 for the team's home opener of the 2021 MLB season.
The Orioles announced on Friday that Oriole Park at Camden Yards will allow approximately 11,000 fans -- operating at 25% capacity -- to begin the 2021 season. The decision is in accordance with city and state regulations.
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“The long-awaited return of fans is the result of successful nation-wide and organizational efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, increase vaccination access for millions of Americans, and strengthen our economy by bringing employees back to work,” Orioles Chairman and CEO John Angelos said in a statement.
“Just as we did in 2020, the Orioles will remain vigilant in our efforts and will continue to consult medical experts every step of the way as we invite fans back to Oriole Park at Camden Yards to enjoy another successful baseball season.”
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In order to ensure social distancing among fans, tickets will be sold in "pods" with each group of tickets more than six feet apart from the rest. Masks will also be required.
The news that fans will be back in Camden Yards comes just days after Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced that large outdoor venues can begin operating at 50% capacity as part of the state's reopening plan.
“The Orioles play a critical role in our roadmap to recovery and the team’s dedication to the safety of our community is what will allow us to take that first step in welcoming fans back into the ballpark,” Hogan said. “We will work closely with the Orioles to ensure the proper guidelines are in place for fans to safely enjoy America’s favorite pastime and educate fans on the importance of getting vaccinated.”
