Not even the excitement of MLB opening day on Thursday could provide a break from COVID-19 as ballparks across the United States were left mostly empty while the game in Washington, D.C. between the Nationals and New York Mets was postponed after positive tests.
Fans, many wearing masks, did their best to put on a happy face, but the usual buzz associated with opening day was lacking as COVID-19 health and safety protocols were observed across the league.
With 14 games on the schedule, the mood was as defiant as it was giddy as stadiums, many that had been used as vaccination centers, prepared to welcome back spectators.