COVID-19 Stops Home Opener so Grizzlies Take It Online

Tuesday night was supposed to be the home opener for the Fresno Grizzlies and thousands of local baseball fans.

Obviously, that is not happening.

But, the Triple-A club will celebrate ballpark activities all day online through the team’s social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook).

Calling it the “At Home Opener,” festivities started at 10 a.m. with fans having a chance to sing the National Anthem, via video. That doubled as a singing contest. The winner will have a chance to perform in real life when the baseball resumes.

When Major League Baseball postponed its March 26 season-opening, the decision trickled down to the minor leagues as well. The Pacific Coast League had an April 9 start date.

For the fifth time in their 23-year history, the Grizzlies are the top affiliate of the World Series champion. Their parent club, the Washington Nationals, hoisted the trophy last season.

A Full Day

The Grizzlies have a full slate of online activities, including a video game simulation of tonight’s scheduled game — the Grizzlies versus the Reno Aces (Arizona’s Triple-A club).

After the virtual national anthem, there will be a virtual first pitch, a noon chicken dance, and a taco cam.

Correction: an earlier version said Reno was San Diego’s top affiliate. It is Arizona.