Baseball fans are gathering under gray, chilly skies at Comerica Park for the Detroit Tigers' home opener.
The Good Friday game has drawn criticism from some Roman Catholic leaders. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m., during the noon to 3 p.m. holy hours when traditional Christian belief says Jesus hung on the cross.
Detroit Archbishop Allen Vigneron told WJR-AM radio host Paul W. Smith on Friday he was disappointed, but still will bless the team as 1-3 Detroit takes the field against the 3-0 Texas Rangers.
One Catholic Tigers fan, attending his 26th straight opening day, says fans can choose between services and the game. Thirty-two-year-old Matt Johnston of Troy said going to the game will help the city by bringing money into Detroit.
Friday's game is the first of a three-game series between the Rangers and Tigers.
