"We're just thrilled that the season is starting," said Mario Alioto, Executive Vice President of Business Operations for the Giants. "It's the first time we've actually opened the season at home in quite a while so yes, there were some labor issues, but we feel like that's behind us. The season is starting on time here in San Francisco and we can't wait for opening day. Opening day is just a special event here at Oracle Park."
[Ads /]
The Giants are coming off a National League West win and franchise-record 107 wins. But the team struggled with attendance last year during the pandemic.
RELATED: 1st woman MLB coach Alyssa Nakken on Giants' diverse clubhouse
However, that wasn't the case on Friday, team officials say it was a sellout crowd at Oracle with 40,853 fans. The Giants beat the Marlins in an exciting fashion with a walk-off line drive that drove in the winning run.
Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test were not required to enter the park.
"It's nice to have normalcy again, cheering your home team, I'm excited," said Al Morando from San Mateo.
Lucky Strike restaurant manager Ariceli Maritnez says her crew has waited a long time to welcome a hungry pre-game crowd like this.
[Ads /]
"We've been ordering food, staffing up, hired more people, we're ready," said Martinez.
RELATED: Schwarber goes deep for Phillies in 9-5 win over Athletics
"I'm here to watch baseball, opening day, what could be a better day," said Patrick Harvey from Sacramento.
The A's opened the season against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park where they, unfortunately, lost 9-5.
Go here for the latest news and videos about the San Francisco Giants.
Go here for the latest news and videos about the Oakland Athletics.