SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- While the San Diego Padres lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers Tuesday night in Game 1 of the National League Division Series, fans were thankful to be able to participate in the action alongside other San Diegans.
While much of the Friar Faithful couldn’t make it to Texas to cheer on the Padres, the playoff excitement was still felt downtown, and for some, that was enough.
“Unfortunately, you can’t watch it live, but to be surrounded with a group of people that are all watching it and all really excited, it’s pretty magical,” said Andrea Durkee, a resident of downtown and Padres fan. “I think we all needed something just happy and exciting and to look forward to, and this is absolutely the best thing we could have downtown.”
Some fans watched the first game in the best-of-five series from Petco Park’s Tailgate Lot, which was transformed into a drive-in style viewing party.
“I have season tickets actually, and we weren’t able to go this year, which is a huge bummer, but we’ve made the best out of it,” said Catie Vance. “We’re excited that we got to do this, at least.”
Spectators on the other side were just as excited.
“Grew up in LA, my grandfather had season tickets, I’ve probably seen 100 Dodger games at Dodger stadium I haven’t seen them win the world series yet, I’d love to see that, but I guess if someone has to go and the Padres do go, there’s worse things that can happen in life,” said Michael Martin, a Dodger’s fan.
Facial coverings were required for all fans outside of their vehicles, and vehicles were spaced 20 feet apart to encourage social distancing.
