The Mets take to Citi Field Thursday afternoon for their season opener. The day could be a home run both on the field and in the stands, because the weather should work out beautifully!
Game time is set for 1:15 p.m. with a first pitch temperature in the 60s, above normal for this time of year. We may get a few peeks of sunshine early in the afternoon, too, which will brighten the day for everyone involved. Don’t forget bring your hat and shades, and maybe a bit of sunscreen if your seats are in the sun.
For players, a brisk south wind at 15 mph – with gusts over 20 mph at times – could be heaven for hitters. At Citi Field, a south wind blows from home plate into center field.
That means hitters will have a tail wind that could help take their fly ball the distance. Who wouldn’t love a little home run derby to start the season?
For fans, the breeze could make things a bit cool if seated in a shady spot, so a hoodie or light jacket could come in handy.
Late in the game, clouds will take over as a cold front approaches. That front will bring rain Thursday evening, but that should be well after the stands are cleared and everyone has headed home.
Overall, the forecast points to a pleasant opener by early-season standards: warmer-than-normal temperatures, some sunshine, and a wind that could become part of the story. For Mets fans, it has the makings of a home run kind of day at Citi Field.