Sep 19, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; The large screen in left field pays tribute to former Detroit Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire before the game against the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Gardenhire announced his retirement this afternoon. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports for REUTERS

1,000 fans for Detroit’s Opening Day, Ilitch hopes for more as season progresses

By Ken Delaney Mar 10, 2021 | 5:49 AM

LAKELAND, FL (WKZO AM/FM) – Detroit Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch says they will have 1,000 fans in Comerica Park for Opening Day April 1. That is the limit allowed right now by state regulations for COVID-19, but Ilitch believes it will rise as the season progresses.

Speaking at the Tigers Spring Training complex in Lakeland, Florida Tuesday, Ilitch added he’s “very excited” to be able to have fans back at the ballpark after having none in 2020.

Comerica Park’s capacity is just over 41,000 and to have 1,000 is less than three-percent of the maximum.