Cleveland Guardians home opener 2023

Posted: Apr 7, 2023 / 03:34 PM EDT

Updated: Apr 7, 2023 / 03:34 PM EDT

CLEVELAND (WJW / AP) – The day is here — fans will be filling the stands at Progressive Field as the Cleveland Guardians take on Seattle in their home opener.

The Guardians will face off against the Mariners at 4 p.m.

Heading out to the game? Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

Can I still get tickets?

Opening Day is sold out, including standing-room-only tickets.

What will the weather be like?

Weather conditions for the big game aren’t looking too bad. Temperatures are looking cool Friday, in the low 40s, but conditions should stay dry and expect to see a little sunshine.

Keep up with weather conditions here.

What will traffic be like?

Traffic is expected to be pretty congested downtown, so Cleveland police suggest taking advantage of public transportation or carpooling.

Anyone riding with Cleveland RTA will have access to free parking at RTA locations as well as rides to and from Progressive Field.

Anyone who parks downtown is urged not to leave valuables in their vehicles or to put them in the trunk.

According to Cleveland police, the following parking restrictions will be in place starting at 1 p.m.:

East 4th Street from Prospect Avenue to Huron Road, both sides
Bolivar Avenue from E. 7 to E. 14th Street, both sides
West Huron Road from Ontario Street to West Superior Avenue
East 9th Street from Carnegie Avenue to Superior Avenue, both sides
Prospect Avenue from East 14th Street to Ontario Street, both sides
Huron Road between Ontario Street and Prospect Avenue, both sides
Carnegie Avenue from East 14th Street to East 9th Street, both sides

The Warehouse District Parking Ban will be in effect from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Anyone parked illegally will be towed, officials say.

What are this year’s home opener festivities?

The celebration is kicking off with the Guardians Block Party at Gateway Plaza from 1:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Then, the ceremonial first pitch is set to be thrown by 2022 Super Bowl Champ Travis Kelce and his mom Donna.

The National Anthem will be sung by Cleveland Native Norelle Simpson and the 112th fighter squadron of the Ohio Air National Guard will perform a flyover.

Check out more details on home opener festivities here.

What’s new at the concession stand?

You can’t go to the ball game without getting a snack.

Fans will be able to try a variety of new food items this season — from crab Rangoon nachos and buffalo chicken mac and cheese to hot honey chicken tenders and “The Wild Thing,” which is a vegan chili dog with cheese, onions and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

During a press event last week, the Guardians also announced that half of Progressive Field’s concession stands and most in-seat vendors are moving to cashless this season. You will be able to pay with credit card, Apple Pay and Google Pay.