WASHINGTON — As the cherry trees lining the Tidal Basin near peak bloom, there’s another sure sign that it’s spring in Washington — opening day at Nationals Park. The National League East Division champion Washington Nationals host the New York Mets today at 4:05 p.m.
Fans going to the game can expect a few new twists this season.
Starting this season, all Major League Baseball teams have installed metal detectors to screen guests entering games. The security has been added under the guidance of the Department of Homeland Security.
At Nationals Park, fans will have to have their bags checked, then walk through the metal detectors before scanning their tickets at the turnstiles. The Nationals say they’re making efforts to ensure that the metal detectors don’t slow entry to the park.
There’s also a new eatery at Nats Town — Throwin’ Cheese, a concession for lovers of grilled cheese sandwiches. In May, the Virginia Biscuit Company will open, offering hot ham sandwiches.
The team came to D.C. from Montreal in 2005, and to mark the 10th anniversary the Nationals have erected a baseball Americana exhibit in the main concourse that depicts the history of baseball in the District, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
There’s also something to look for in the stands — three new red seats. Two are in the right field upper deck, marking towering homers hit by Bryce Harper, and one in left center field marks the longest home run in the park — hammered by Michael Morse in 2012.
