LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Baseball's Opening Day is going to be different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and today the Los Angeles Dodgers gave fans a small taste of the new normal -- they can take a photo of themselves and purchase a cutout that will bear their image to help fill the stadium.
Net proceeds from the sale of cutouts will benefit the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, and cutouts in the Dugout Club or the new Pavilion Home Run Seats will cost $299, while field and loge locations will be $149.
The 2020 Major League Baseball season kicks off next week, but no fans will be permitted into Dodger Stadium or other ballparks around the country due to the ongoing pandemic.
“The electrifying energy of Dodger Stadium is rooted in the passion of our fans. While we are saddened that they will not be part of the live experience, the personalized cutouts will bring a bit of color to the stadium during these challenging times,'' said Nichol Whiteman, CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity of our fans everywhere, this campaign will fund our critical work. Together we will help Angelenos when they need support the most.''
During the purchasing process, fans can select a seat in the section of their choice, subject to availability. The selected section is guaranteed, but the selected row and seat are not guaranteed for cutout placement, the Dodgers stated. Photo upload instructions will be emailed separately within one business day after purchase.
The Dodgers said fans are encouraged to act quickly at Dodgers.com/FanCutouts to reserve their spot at the stadium, as only a limited number of locations are available. My Dodgers Members and Premium Clients have access to presales as of Tuesday, and the sales will be open to the public at 10 a.m. Wednesday.
All Dodgers Fan Cutouts will be authenticated as game-used through the MLB Authentication Program, according to the Dodgers. The cutouts are made of Coroplast, a weatherproof material, and are 18 inches wide and 30 inches tall.
Images are subject to Dodgers approval.
Should circumstances change amid the pandemic, the Dodgers said they reserve the right to relocate or remove fan cutouts in the event that tickets go on sale for the 2020 season.
Photo: Getty Images