Detroit Tigers home opener: What to know as you head out to Comerica Park

What should Detroit Tigers fans expect before Opening Day at Comerica Park?

The Detroit Tigers take on the Boston Red Sox on Thursday at Comerica Park in the team's home opener. First pitch is at 1:10. The pitching matchup is Chris Sale vs. Spencer Turnbull.

Much of the information in this article was obtained via press release.

Gates will open at 10:30 a.m., about an hour earlier than normal for an afternoon game. Since it is the home opener, I'd get there early if possible. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 40s to low 50s, so a light jacket is recommended. No rain is in the forecast, which is great news. All the rain here in Michigan came and went just in time for the Tigers home opener.

The reason the gates are opening at 10:30 is because the team is hosting what they are calling "The Miller Lite Home Run Happy Hour," which will be located at the rebranded Comerica Landing. That will run for an hour and feature select consession items for $5.

The Opening Day Tailgate Party, hosted by Miller Lite and Bally Sports Detroit, will take place at Grand Circus Park, just down the street from the ballpark.

The national anthem will be performed by 2016 runner-up on NBC's "The Voice," Laith Al-Saadi, who is a Michigan native. That will be followed by a flyover by four A-10 Thunderbolt "Warthog" aircrafts from the 107th Fighter Squadron, part of the 127th Wing located at Selfrifge Air National Guard Base.

There will also be several ceremonial first pitches by several "Detroit pro sports legends." Lots of stuff will be going on at and around the ballpark.

Opening Day at Comerica Park is always a fun time. Just remember to be safe and drink responsibly. Hopefully everyone sees a Tigers win.