The sold-out Toronto Blue Jays' home opener is tonight against the Tampa Bay Rays. If you’re heading to the Rogers Centre for the game, here are a few things to know:
Give yourself some extra time:
Major League Baseball has implemented new security procedures at all of its stadiums. The regulations require the clubs to use metal detectors at all entrances, according to a Jays press release.
In order to be in your seat in time to see the first pitch, the Jays recommend the following:
- Arrive at least 20 minutes prior to game’s start time
- Have your tickets out and ready to be presented
- Cell phones, keys or any metal objects must be removed and placed in bowls before passing through the detectors
- Electronics such as tablets and cameras must be taken out of bags and presented to security officers for manual inspection
- Avoid wearing clothes with metal snaps and buttons, belts with large metal buckles, or shoes with steel toes, metal arches or shanks
Fans will not be required to remove belts, watches and shoes while going through the security checkpoints.
The home opener is scheduled to begin at 7:07 p.m., but gates at the stadium will open starting at 5 p.m.
The roof will be closed:
Temperatures are expected to hit the 20 degree mark but the Rogers Centre’s retractable roof is expected to be closed for the home opener, according to a tweet from the Rogers Centre.
WiFi at the Rogers Centre:
Free WiFi will be available at the games, according to a tweet from Jays SVP of Business, Stephen Brooks. The hope is WiFi will make fans more active on social media during the games, promoting the team.
Seating changes:
“Club level” seats in the 200 section have been replaced. The Jays confirmed they replaced the cushion seats with ones that aren’t padded. All 200 level seats will now have cup holders.
