Houston – It’s Spring in Houston. You know what that means, crawfish, hotter temperatures, and BASEBALL.
Astros baseball is back in same ballpark with a different name. Gone are the days of Minute Maid Park to make way for a new era with Daikin Park to mark the ballpark’s 25th anniversary.
Thursday’s home opener against the New York Mets marks the beginning of a three game series to close out March.
Houston Life was boots on the ground ahead of the afternoon game with Tessa Barrera holding things down on field with KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlroy, Lauren hanging around Street Fest, Hall of Fame Alley, and Mel Camp hanging out at the Team Store and the local businesses surrounding Daikin to see how home games make a big difference in their sales.
While Derrick is taking some much-needed time off, Randy stepped in with Tessa to chat all things about the new season. Did you know beloved mascot Orbit is the 4th most followed MLB mascot right behind Mr. and Mrs. Met, Blooper Braves, and Phillie Phanatic?
Tessa then chatted with Anita Sehgal, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications. There’s so much to do behind the scenes to make Opening Day happen and Anita and her team work tirelessly to make it go smoothly. Plus, what’s happening with the beloved Astros homerun train?
Lauren’s Opening Day journey started off at the Hall of Fame Alley where the new mural was unveiled. Artist Bobby Ramos partnered up with several students from Houston Christian University to create the memorable piece marking 25 years of unforgettable baseball.
Mel really lucked out with her assignments. First, she stopped by the Team Store to see what’s new, what’s back, and how to get your hands on sold out merchandise from last season. This new season, Astros released the new City Connect jerseys.
Outside of the stadium, there are so many small businesses and restaurant who love home game because of the big bucks it brings. Mel set out to a few of them to see the economic impact the team has on them. Plus, how to pre and post game the EaDo way!
One of the best things about Houston baseball has to be the fans. Did you know that the Houston Astros Fans are the most loyal? While the rest of the country lose faith after 9 consecutive losses, it take 10 games for an Astro fan to really feel down and out about the boys. That must count for something. Speaking of fans, Lauren Kelly finally made her way outside to hangout with fans. Two in particular are Daikin employees and Astros Super Fans!
We hope the ‘Stros have a fantastic season!