By Tiffany Williams –
It’s been 272,160 minutes since the Baltimore Orioles last graced the hallowed grounds of Oriole Park, where they faced a narrow defeat against the Detroit Tigers, falling 4-3 on September 22, 2024. Despite this setback, the Orioles concluded the regular season on a high note, winning five of their final six games on the road. The anticipation has now built for 257,760 minutes since that heartbreaking loss to the Kansas City Royals, who edged them out 2-1 in Game Two of the AL Wild Card.
Tomorrow, the long wait for baseball at Oriole Park is nearly over. On Monday, March 31, the Orioles will joyously welcome fans back for their highly anticipated Home Opener at 3:05 p.m. ET against the storied Boston Red Sox. The club will face this divisional rival again to complete their initial homestand on Wednesday, April 2, at 6:35 p.m., followed by a contest on Thursday, April 3, at 1:05 p.m.
Home Opener festivities will kick off at 2:30 p.m., featuring a special pregame ceremony emceed by Orioles broadcaster Kevin Brown, setting the stage for an unforgettable day.
Adding to the excitement, Baltimore native and standout contestant from this season of “American Idol,” Gabby Samone, will deliver her stirring rendition of the national anthem from the sod farm before the game. Growing up just blocks from Oriole Park, Samone was immersed in music as a member of the choir at New Bethel Abundant Life Ministries, where her passion for singing took root. Today, this talented pop and R&B singer is inspired by her Baltimore upbringing as she embarks on her debut project.
As the national anthem is performed, a stunning 30’ x 42’ flag from Fort McHenry will majestically descend from the batter’s eye. This impressive flag is a replica of the one that proudly flew over Fort McHenry as Francis Scott Key penned the Star-Spangled Banner. The flag will be unfurled with the help of rangers, employees, and dedicated volunteers from the national monument.
Colors will be presented with great honor by members of the Baltimore Police Department Honor Guard and the Baltimore City Fire Department Honor Guard, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
The anthem’s conclusion will be met with a thrilling flyover by the Maryland National Guard’s 104th Fighter Squadron of the 175th Wing, affectionately known as the “Fightin’ O’s,” adding a dramatic flair to the festivities.
Children from the YMCA of Central Maryland will line the vibrant orange carpet, proudly holding Orioles flags during the pregame ceremony, embodying the spirit of community and youth.
In a touching tribute, the Orioles will recognize Jake Stovall, the son of the late Mike Stovall, as the Mo Gaba Fan of the Year. Mike, a dedicated father and beloved community member, tragically lost his life in a plane crash on January 29, 2025, while returning from a memorable duck hunting trip with friends. He will forever be remembered for his kindness and his unwavering love for his family.
Students from the Orioles’ Adopt-A-School program, Harlem Park Elementary Middle School, will enthusiastically shout the ceremonial “Play Ball” to kick off the game.
Before the first pitch, fans can revel in the vibrant atmosphere with live music from DJ Mighty Mark, partake in various photo opportunities, and enjoy mascot appearances at Maryland Square—located outside of Gates A & C—from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fans can look forward to seeing the return of Orioles in-game host Dennis T for the 2025 season, alongside Alyssia Graves, engaging and energizing the crowd throughout the ballpark. DJ Maybach will also provide lively music entertainment during the game.
All attendees of Monday’s Home Opener will be greeted with an exclusive Orioles Rally Towel, adding to the excitement.
In a delightful tradition, the beloved Camden Franks will compete live at Oriole Park, with Ketchup, Mustard, and Relish racing around the right field warning track and down the first base line during the middle of the fourth inning, much to the delight of fans.
Additionally, an opening day auction will provide fans the chance to bid on unique game-used memorabilia, with proceeds benefiting the Orioles Charitable Foundation. The auction is now live on Orioles.com/Auction and will remain open until Sunday, April 6, at 10 p.m.
Gates to Oriole Park at Camden Yards will swing open three hours prior to the first pitch at 12 p.m. Parking lots will begin admitting fans at 11 a.m. Attendees are encouraged to be seated by 2:30 p.m. to fully enjoy the Home Opener pregame festivities, and those watching from home can tune in to MASN for the action.
In the second game of the three-game series against the Red Sox on Wednesday, April 2, Troy Kroger will take center stage to perform the national anthem, with colors presented by the University of Maryland’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 330 Honor Guard.
The series will culminate in game three on Thursday, April 3, where Baltimore native India Boone will showcase her talent with a rendition of the national anthem. Boone, a performing artist currently touring with “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” on Broadway, will bring her unique flair to the proceedings. Colors will once again be presented by the Morgan State ROTC Color Guard.
Thursday also marks Senior Day and All-Stars at The Yard, a special occasion recognizing the loyal fans who have supported the team over the years. Fans aged 55 and up will have the opportunity to enjoy a pregame stroll around the warning track with the purchase of a Senior Day ticket package, as they bask in the nostalgia of past seasons. This pregame stroll is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., weather permitting.
As part of the All-Stars at The Yard program, presented by The Good Feet Store, the Orioles will generously donate 50 tickets for Thursday’s game to Neighbor Ride, ensuring that the joy of baseball reaches the wider community.
Sports Insider Daily 