(WWJ) Some Republican lawmakers gathered in front of Comerica Park on Monday to highlight what they call ridiculous capacity limits in place ahead of Detroit Tigers Opening Day,
Under coronavirus-related rules set by the state health department, the capacity limits stands at 1,000 fans for the Tigers home opener against the Cleveland Indians, set to take place Thursday, April 1.
The stadium, equipped to hold 41,000 people, is typically filled on Opening Day, which is traditionally celebrated as a holiday in the city — with tailgates, parties and packed bars downtown the norm.
Among those who say 1,000 fans isn't nearly enough is Michigan Rep. Matthew Maddock, a Republican representing the state's 44th District,
"You know, it t feels like Groundhog Day," Maddock told WWJ's Jon Hewett and other reporters outside the ballpark. "Like we keep on doing the same things over and over and over again. We need to do something different; we need to open up the state of Michigan again and we need to start celebrating life."
"Spring is a significant time in our lives to celebrate new beginnings, and that's what we need to have in Michigan," he added. "We need to open up Michigan."
Maddock said he'd like to see 50% capacity, or something like 20,000 fans, in attendance when Comerica Park opens for the season.
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Also on hand for the news conference was Rep. T.C. Clements, a Republican representing Michigan's 56th district; while notably absent from the event was anyone representing residents of the city of Detroit.
In response to Monday's demonstration, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's office released a statement saying that their top priority remains the health of Michigan residents, and that they remain in close contact with the Detroit Tigers organization.
A statement released by the Detroit Tigers later in the day appeared to indicate, however, that the 1,000-fan Opening Day limit was not set in stone.
“In the coming days, we look forward to announcing more details on increased capacity for Opening Day and beyond at Comerica Park. For the past several months, we have been coordinating with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, public health and medical experts, government officials, Major League Baseball, and leading venues throughout the country, to develop a comprehensive plan that will allow fans to confidently and safely return to the ballpark for the 2021 Detroit Tigers regular season. We appreciate the passion, patience, and resilience of Tigers fans and expect to soon announce more details on increased ticket availability," the statement read.
As COVID-19 remains a concern nationwide, most Major League Baseball stadiums are sticking with some sort of limits to fan attendance. One notable exception is Globe Life Field, where the Texas Rangers are set to allow full capacity to start the 2021 season.
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