Ready to 'orange out' Minute Maid Park? Astros' home-opener set for Friday

Houston will take on Oakland

HOUSTON – Who's ready for baseball season?

The Houston Astros are expecting a sold-out crowd for opening day this Friday at Minute Maid Park, as the team takes on the Oakland Athletics.

The game is set for 7:10 p.m., and it'll be televised on the MLB Network and AT&T SportsNet.

If you're interested in trying to snag a seat, well, you might not be able to physically sit -- but the team recently released a few hundred standing-room only tickets for fans who don't mind staying on their feet or strolling.

Astros fans will be attempting to "orange out" the park, meaning you'll want to wear something orange to match the home crowd.

Also, the park will host another Opening Day Street Fest, presented by Budweiser, featuring live music, food trucks, games and access to the center field area and St. Arnold Bar from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. A game ticket is required for entry. Street Fest entrances are located at Left Field Gate, Center Field Gate and the Atrium Entrance.

Pregame ceremonies start at 6:30 p.m. The team said the Astros will celebrate President George H.W. Bush and former first lady Barbara Bush with a special tribute, honoring 41 and Mrs. Bush as some of the greatest Astros fans in franchise history. Several Bush family members, including their son, Neil Bush, and grandsons, Pierce Bush and George P. Bush, will be in attendance, the team said.

The US Navy RS Houston All Female Color Guard will present the colors, a tribute to George H.W. Bush’s service in the Navy, and The 149th Fighter Wing of Texas Air National Guard will conduct a flyover, weather permitting. George P. Bush will throw the ceremonial first pitch.

All fans will receive a 2019 schedule magnet as they enter the ballpark.

Astros season ticket holders and winners of an Astros social media contest will present a giant American flag and create a human “103” display on the infield dirt to celebrate the club’s historic 103-win 2018 season.

Current US Naval officer and Texas A&M graduate, Lieutenant Commander Greg Sharp, will perform the National Anthem and God Bless America.

Finally, fireworks will cap off the evening.

You going?