MLB mascots will be allowed in ballparks
Fans won't be in the stands when the Major League Baseball season begins, but team mascots will be allowed to roam the ballparks.
One item in the league's 67-page document outlining player-safety protocols last month included barring mascots from games. MLB reversed the policy this week and will allow mascots in the park, but not on the field, according to Ben Walker of The Associated Press.
With no fans present, mascots and teams will need to get creative to keep fans entertained from their homes.
"I can think right now of about five routines that I'd do. There are lots of things mascots can try," former Philly Phanatic portrayer Dave Raymond said. "You could even have a camera follow them around the park the whole game. It'd be fun for fans, seeing what they do."
He added: "Most of us are going to the park to forget our problems or be entertained. That's what we can do to help, even if there aren't any fans inside."
The MLB finalized its return-to-play plan on Tuesday and is expected to begin its season on July 23 or 24.