WASHINGTON — The Washington Nationals are trying to make it easier for fans to come to games and stay the full nine innings.
The team announced on Monday that all 2024 home games will start earlier than usual. Evening games will now begin 20 minutes earlier at 6:45 p.m., while the majority of day games will remain at 1:05 p.m., 1:35 p.m. or 4:05 p.m.
“Our goal is always to deliver a top-tier ballpark experience to our fans, and that includes making sure that attending a game at Nationals Park is as convenient as possible,” said Alan H. Gottlieb, chief operating officer of the Lerner Sports Group. “Starting our evening games 20 minutes earlier, combined with MLB rules that have significantly shortened game times, makes it easier for fans to stay the full nine innings – even on a school or work night.”
Nats Park gates will continue to open at 5:30 p.m. and 75 minutes prior to scheduled first pitch for all games.
In addition to the earlier start times for evening games, the team says Sundays at Nationals Park will continue to be family-focused. The 2024 season welcomes the return of events like Signature Sundays, Kids Run the Bases and special giveaways, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m. Special Kids Giveaway Mini-Plans are now available at nats.com/5Packs.
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