Capacity restrictions for Trash Pandas inaugural season up to state and local authorities
MADISON – The Trash Pandas will be watching with anticipation when Gov. Kay Ivey announces on April 9 what direction her “safer at home” order will take. The Minor League Baseball team in Madison issued an update Friday saying the attendance restriction on their inaugural season will depend on what Ivey has to say.
Trash Pandas CEO Ralph Nelson said the Minor League will defer to state and local authorities regarding the number of fans that are permitted to attend games and any requirements for how fans should be seated.
“This is generally good news here in North Alabama, so we are all looking forward to hearing what Governor Ivey has to say on April 9th,” Nelson said. “Her decision will be the key determinant as to how many of our great fans will be in Toyota Field on Opening Day and throughout the season. If the governor says that we can seat fans throughout the entire ballpark, then that is exactly what we will do.”
Nelson added that regardless of Ivey’s decision, there are some restrictions imposed by Major League Baseball to which the ball-club will be required to adhere.
“For example, there will be a plexiglass ‘buffer zone’ built around the dugouts and bullpens to protect players; and, regardless of state and local restrictions, fans who are two years and older will be required to wear a mask in Toyota Field unless eating or drinking,” Nelson stated. “MLB has made it clear to us that this rule will be strictly enforced to start the season, regardless of local regulations. The Trash Pandas will also enforce “social distancing” practices in lines heading in and out of the stadium, at concession stands, and in The Junkyard retail store.”
“We are optimistic that the modifications we will be required to make to the stadium in order to accommodate regulations imposed by the state and Major League Baseball will not result in the loss of any seating, so fans will remain in the seats they choose when tickets are purchased,” he added.
In addition, Toyota Field will also implement a clear-bag policy for the 2021 season. Fans will be encouraged not to bring any bags; however, one of the following will be permitted: One clear bag no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”, or a one-gallon clear freezer bag, or a small clutch bag or purse no larger than 6.5” x 4.5”. Some exceptions will be made for fans with health-related needs and parents bringing infants to games.
The Trash Pandas are the Double-A Minor League affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels, and will play their first game at Toyota Field on May 11 against the Tennessee Smokies. For the full season schedule and additional information, visit TrashPandasBaseball.com.
