NEW YORK (WCBS 880) – Fans were back in the stands for the Yankees’ season opener on Thursday for the first time in over a year.
Gerrit Cole threw the first pitch of the season against the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m.
Cole, who pitched to an empty stadium during his first year with the team, said it’s “very gratifying” to know fans will be back.
The Yankees were allowed to sell just under 11,000 tickets for the home opener and the next 10 home games. They’re hoping to expand capacity next month.
Fans haven’t been in the stands at Yankees Stadium since Oct. 18, 2019.
"We're huge baseball fans in general. Not having that outlet and really something to do all summer really kind of puts down a little bit. It's just a great feeling to be back. I think this is the happiest we've been in a year," said Michael George, who came to the game with some friends.
"I feel so many emotions today after not being able to do anything like this for over a year," a Yankees fan from Albany said. "This is my thing, this is my happy place, this is what I love, so finally being able to experience this again feels so good."
New protocols, including masks, temperature checks and socially distanced seating, will be in place. Attendees must show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test or a completed vaccination series prior to entry.
Fans are allowed to take off their masks at their seats to eat peanuts, Cracker Jacks and other food. Concessions will be cashless for the time being.
“The experience of course will be a little bit different. We encourage all fans to get here early,” said Doug Behar, senior vice president of stadium operations.
Fans will also have to contend with the weather. It’s forecast to be blustery and chilly on Thursday afternoon.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced last month that large outdoor stadiums in New York state could reopen at 20% capacity.
“I think you’re going to see the capacity increase and testing requirements decrease as we get more evidence, but we want to start safe and smart,” Cuomo said last month.
Yankee Stadium will remain a mass vaccination site, but the site will be closed for home games.
The Mets will be in Washington to face the Nationals on Opening Day.