ROCHESTER, N.Y. — After nearly two years and a team affiliation change, the Rochester Red Wings held their home opener Tuesday night.

For the first time in 624 days, the gates to Frontier Field welcomed fans for a baseball game.

“My favorite part about being here is the good weather,” said Sarah Huddleson of Rochester.

“All day long, we felt excited; the kids felt excited,” said Janaraha Rizzo, also of Rochester.

Excitement and the smell of great food filled the stadium as fans filled in for the first home game. Some even greeted Red Wings President and CEO Naomi Silver with hugs.

“It’s just an amazing feeling to see people back in the ballpark," said Silver. "I know how much we’ve missed it. I think they’ve missed it equally, you know?"

Spectrum News 1 caught up with some fans that said they wouldn’t miss the day for the world.

“This is the best day that I’ve had in over 600 days, I love, love, love the Wings; we are die-hard fans,” said Gail Libutti of Webster.

The couple was excited to be back with their Red Wings family, socialize, and do something they really enjoy.

“We’re starting to get back into the normal, and that to me is the most important thing because everybody can see people that we love and that we enjoy being around,” Libutti said.

Die-hard Red Wings fans want everyone to know one thing.

“We like our wings hot, we want them to win, and even if you win or lose, we’re here to support you no matter what the outcome is,” said Libutti.

For information on tickets or to see the game schedule, click here.

Masks are still encouraged for fans. but not required for those who are vaccinated.