Minor League Baseball delays opening day. Fresno Grizzlies, Visalia Rawhide affected

Following the lead of other professional sports organizations, Minor League Baseball announced Thursday it has delayed its season in light of the current coronavirus outbreak.

In a statement, the league said it had consulted with medical professionals and its partners at Major League Baseball in the decision and the it is working to resume play “as soon as it is safe to do so.”

“While we hope to be playing baseball in Fresno as soon as possible, the health and safety of our community, the Grizzlies staff, players and coaches are of the highest importance,” said Fresno Grizzlies president Derek Franks in a statement.

The Grizzlies had recently announced a partnership with Fresno State Eats on a series of collaborative food events. The team’s home opener was scheduled for April 14 against the Reno Aces.

The Rawhide, Visalia’s Class-A ball club is also affected. The team was scheduled to begin the season April 9 with a three-game homestand against the Stockton Ports.

Fears over the spread of the coronavirus have caused havoc for the local entertainment scene this week. Several major events have been canceled, postponed or rescheduled.

This story was originally published March 12, 2020 at 2:26 PM.