Fans Feel “Giants Fever” on Day of Home Opener

Despite the sunny skies and perfect temperatures on Tuesday, many in San Francisco were suffering from an annual springtime ailment: Giants Fever.

The crowd went wild before the game even began: BatKid threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

A few hours before the Giants took on the Arizona Diamondback for their home opener at AT&T Park, fans were already lined up at the gate, champing at the bit.

Many had called in sick or blown off work.

"She called me in sick," a young Joe Broden told NBC Bay Area, pointing to his mom, Julie.

"He's got 'Giants Fever,' so he's going to be here," Julie Broden added.

Gary Daniels, who is normally at work on a regular week day, was not behind a desk on Tuesday. Instead, he was outside enjoying the weather and the crowds before noon, ready to hear the crack of a bat and smell the sweet whiff of cotton candy.

"Maybe this is the year we'll win it all," he said before the game.

Janet Clark brought a Giants-decorated tin filled with cheese and prosciutto. She said she would break out the wine at the fifth inning.

"I've gotta keep my game face on," she said.

The Giants are off to a strong start. The team enters Tuesday's home opener on top of the NL West, with a half-game lead over the Dodgers.

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