COVINGTON, Ky. — Opening Day for Major League Baseball was Thursday, March 27, and no one does it bigger or better than fans of the Cincinnati Reds.
A big portion of that loyal fan base is Kentuckians, who made their way across the Ohio River to watch the first pitch at Great American Ballpark.
Reds enthusiasm runs deep with fans in Covington as optimistic as they’ve been in a long time.
“I have a good feeling about this season. I think we could take the NL Central,” said Rob Schumacher.
“I feel the energy with the new manager, for sure. I feel the change and the anticipation,” said Carla Carr.
“I’m always optimistic about day one,” said Lisa Waman.
Some keep their expectations in check so they won’t be disappointed.
“I hope they’re over .500,” said David Henry.
Jake Rouse, co-founder and CEO of the Braxton Brewing Company, falls into the first category.
“With Terry Francona coming on board, being able to see Elly De La Cruz and all these people develop, I think we’re gonna win the central. I’d like to see a playoff run. We haven’t seen one since we’ve been open, and it’s our ten-year anniversary this year,” Rouse said.
Braxton Brewing Company is one of the many northern Kentucky businesses that celebrated Opening Day and took advantage of the benefits.
According to a news release from Visit Cincy and meetNKY, the region saw a significant surge in visitor spending and business activity across during Opening Day in 2024. Restaurants saw a 24% increase in spending from visitors and local retailers saw a 22% increase in business.
“Honestly, getting people to come back and forth between Cincinnati and Covington, it’s just an awesome economic development,” Rouse said.
People in the area also consider Opening Day the official welcome to spring.
“It reminds me of how close our city is, and how much we appreciate this day. It’s like a holiday around here,” Schumacher said.
“The optimism, just the energy. It’s a fun environment,” Henry said.
“That’s really what I love, just seeing the community come out and support the Reds.” Waman said.
Carr said, “It’s like Christmas Day. I didn’t sleep last night, because I was so excited.”
Carr used to go to Opening Day with her dad, now she goes with her husband and kids.
“I’m on year, probably, 25,” she said. “We’ve been to several stadiums, and were dumbfounded by how few people were there. It wasn’t even close.”
For some people, it’s not about the game.
“I’m a hot dog fan. So I’m ready for a ballpark hot dog. I can’t wait to get back in the stadium this year,” said Kara Goettl.
Others were dusting off their baseball superstitions.
“I do. I will never step on the white line, just like sparky,” Waman said.
No matter how anyone celebrated, it was a good day to be a baseball fan in Cincinnati and Covington.
