SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Padres kicked off their first game at home in front of a sold-out crowd Thursday, March 28 as the Friars took on the San Francisco Giants in their first game at home in Petco Park. The Padres triumphed over the Giants 6-4. The first pitch in the Padres home opener was delivered by right-handed pitcher Yu Darvish taking the mound. Darvish pitched 5 innings, allowing one run and five hits while striking out seven in his second start of the season.
Jake Cronenworth’s two-run double highlighted the four-run seventh inning for the San Diego Padres, who beat the San Francisco Giants 6-4 Thursday to spoil Bob Melvin’s return to San Diego. Melvin managed the Padres for the last two seasons before leaving for the Giants with a year left on his contract.
While officially, the Padres had played two regular season games already against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Seoul, South Korea a week earlier, this was their first game in the U.S. and the first chance for the San Diego fans to see their 2024 team in person at Petco Park.
CBS 8 was out at Petco Park all morning as the team and fans prepared for the game.
Opening Series Forecast
Friday's game will follow Thursday's trend with only minor cooling, but otherwise dry and partly cloudy. A light jacket may come in handy, as some will still feel a chill in the air, especially when not in direct sunlight. UV index remained high, perpetuating the need for sunscreen.
Concerns arise for games scheduled on Saturday and Sunday with rain in the forecast for both days. The incoming storm is expected to bring over an inch of accumulating rain and will come alongside cooler temperatures and gusty west winds. This will bring about a stronger threat for rain delays to the scheduled weekend games.
Access to Petco Park
Standard security protocol will be in place for Opening Day, which includes walk-through metal detectors.
Petco Park has an updated bag policy which will prohibit bags except for clutches and purses no larger than 5” X 7”, single-compartment clear plastic bags not exceeding 12” X 6” X 12” or infant and medical bags.
Click here for more information and a list of items that are permitted in the park.
Transportation to the game
There are three trolley lines going to Petco Park every 15 minutes. Those lines include the Green Line, US San Diego Blue Line and the Orange Line. You can purchase transit fare on your mobile device using the PRONTO app or at a ticket machine.
Click here for trolley and bus service information, as well as Rapid Park & Ride locations.
Parking
Fans can purchase parking for off-site locations, such as the San Diego Convention Center and Bayfront Hilton. Click here for more information.
Inside Gallagher Square renovation
To commemorate Petco Park’s 20th anniversary, the San Diego Padres took on an ambitious $20 million Gallagher Square renovation during the team’s off-season.
The newly transformed Gallagher Square will serve as an open-area park for Padres fans to enjoy a game or to attend concerts with some of the world's biggest musical artists.
Finished just in time for Opening Day, CBS 8 received a first look at the stunning and newly reimagined space that will host thousands of families, baseball lovers and music fans for decades to come. Click here to see the pictures.
East Village Block Party: Postponed
The 12th Annual East Village Block Party on Opening Weekend has been postponed due to anticipated weather. The event had been scheduled for Saturday, March 30. A new date will be announced soon.
Where to watch the games, how to get to the park, what you can bring
Standard security protocol will be in place for the 2024 Opening Series at Petco Park, which includes walk-through metal detectors. Petco Park has an updated bag policy which will prohibit bags except for clutches and purses no larger than 5” X 7”, single-compartment clear plastic bags not exceeding 12” X 6” X 12” or infant and medical bags.
Bub's at the Ballpark
Get ready for a feast while you watch Padres games with a drink selection that packs a punch.
Opening Day at Petco Park | Merch and food at the park
Petco Park is a true standout ballpark with amazing food vendors and this year is no exception. Get ready for some of the best gelato around.
Tavern+Bowl East Village
Get a front row seat to Padres games at this East Village Tavern.
Tony Gwynn Jr. reflects on his father's legacy
Tony Gwynn Jr. stopped by CBS 8 Mornings and talked about the statue in tribute to his father Tony Gwynn and how he and his family are trying to preserve his father’s legacy. Gwynn Jr. also talked about the Padres roster and Spring Training.
Tom Seidler shares how his brother Peter is being honored at Petco Park
Tom Seidler, Peter Seidler's brother, joined CBS 8 Mornings to talk about how Peter is being honored at Petco Park and how you can participate. Peter Seidler was the late Padres owner and chairman.
A baseball glove evolution is happening in San Diego
For decades, baseball players have been limited to black and brown gloves. Now, San Diego-based 44 Pro has created a way to customize gloves. The idea has taken off and CBS 8's Eric Kahnert is ‘trading places’ to find out what it takes to make a professional baseball glove and how you can get your hands on one.
Labor of Love | Story and science behind East Village Brewing
Meteorologist turned brewer, Aaron Justus, along with his partner, Brandon Green, use science in their process of making craft beer. The two met in 2012 and dreamed of opening their own brewery and eventually that dream culminated in the East Village Brewing Company. Justus talked to CBS 8’s Neda Iranpour about their company and process, which includes sourcing ingredients from farmers that use sustainable practices.
