The Orioles are allowing fans into Ed Smith Stadium for their 2021 exhibition games. On a limited basis and with various protocols designed to keep everyone safe.
The team announced today that it's implementing pod seating throughout the ballpark to ensure proper social distancing of at least six feet between groups of ticket holders. The Orioles are making a total of 1,833 tickets available for each game, operating at approximately 25 percent capacity.
Policies for regular season games at Camden Yards are still in the works and will be announced at a later date after plans are finalized.
All fans entering Ed Smith Stadium must adhere to the club's health and safety policies while at the ballpark that have been created in coordination with Major League Baseball, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and public health officials. They must wear CDC-approved masks, covering the nose and mouth, at all times. Social distancing will be enforced, along with other enhanced security measures.
The changes include the Orioles encouraging fans to utilize digital ticketing for contactless entry. Fans can access tickets and parking passes on mobile devices through the MLB Ballpark App, logging in with the same email address that was used to purchase the tickets.
Cash payments will not be accepted at Ed Smith Stadium in 2021. Credit and debit cards only to limit touch points at parking lots, concession stands and ticket windows.
Birdland Memberships and five-game flex plans are on sale at Orioles.com/Spring. Single-game tickets for remaining seats will be available beginning Feb. 20.
"The magic of Orioles baseball has always served as a source of joy for so many, especially during the most challenging of times. We are thrilled to safely welcome fans back to the ballpark to join us at Ed Smith Stadium this spring," Jennifer Grondahl, Orioles senior vice president of community development and communications, said in a statement.
"As always, the health and safety of our entire Birdland community remains our top priority. As we partner with Major League Baseball and health experts to create extensive safety measures, we will be relying on each and every fan to do their part so we can safely enjoy baseball together again."
The original Grapefruit League schedule has been adjusted to minimize travel distance and basically keep teams in a regional bubble.
The Orioles will play 14 home games, beginning Sunday, Feb. 28 against the Pirates. There will be 10 afternoon games at Ed Smith Stadium, with first pitch at 1:05 p.m., and four night games starting at 6:05 p.m.
The final exhibition game is Sunday, March 29 against the Rays in Sarasota.
Click here for the full spring schedule and information on the health and safety measures.
By accepting you will be accessing a service provided by a third-party external to https://www.masnsports.com/