HATS OFF FOR PAPI, HUB KIDS
What you need to know for Opening Day
The calendar may say Opening Day at Fenway Park, but the thermometer mocks us that it's freezing with a chance of hypothermia sandwiched between this morning's wind advisory and tomorrow's snow threat. So if you're going to today's game, bundle up, cowboy up, and don't say we didn't warn you with these five wicked helpful tips for surviving the Red Sox' return to Major League Baseball's oldest ballpark.
• When Sox southpaw David Price takes the mound at 2:05 p.m., temperatures will be barely clinging to the low 40s — and dropping — with a wind chill of 32 degrees and wind gusts from the west-northwest of 40 mph, according to Bob Thompson, head meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Norton. “You know, it looks like it's going to be sunny, but it goes downhill from there,” Thompson said. “It's likely to feel pretty chilly.” Snuggies are not on Fenway security's list of prohibited carry-in items, but masks are, so pack the lip balm.
• Fantasize that you're a Sox ace, too, and think low and inside when choosing what section to sit in. Thompson expects the big chill will blow in from behind the Green Monster and across to Pesky's Pole in right field. So, avoid buying gameday tickets with the words “Standing Room Only,” “Right Field” and “Green Monster.” The bad news is one loge seat behind home plate could set you back $170. The frosty forecast has not had a chilling effect on ticket sales at StubHub, said spokeswoman Christi Hardin. As of yesterday afternoon, Hardin said StubHub still had 2,700 tickets available going for an average price of $141. But if the bone-rattling all becomes too much, Thompson recommends getting up and seeking shelter. Which leads us to ...
• Comfort food, comfort food, comfort food. Save the sea salt on that giant pretzel for your driveway when snow arrives tomorrow and load up on the concession stands' hot new offerings, including Creme Brulee French Toast with pastry cream and chocolate ganache, Vermont maple syrup and Fenway Farm's strawberry sauce, all topped with powdered sugar. To help you withstand the temps, during the month of April the ice cream stands will sell hot beverages, soups, chili and chowder. And remember, that second brewski is not your friend on a day like today. Alcohol consumption will actually lower your body temperature, putting you at risk for hypothermia.
• There's warmth in numbers. MBTA spokesman Joe Pesaturo said service on the Green Line will be increased before and after all home games, complemented by additional personnel at key stations around Fenway Park to assist customers. In addition, the T's mobile CharlieVan will be out and about today at Riverside Station from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Fenway Station after the game with pre-loaded CharlieCards for sale.