Rain Delays Braves Game When Marlins Can’t Close Retractable Roof in Time

April 6, 2015

Rick Nyman,

MIAMI (AP) – The Miami Marlins’ season opener against the Atlanta Braves has been halted because of rain – a first at 3-year-old Marlins Park, which has a retractable roof.

There was no rain in the forecast, and officials in charge of the roof at Marlins Park had it open and were caught by surprise when the shower hit in the second inning Monday. The roof began closing shortly after the rain started, but it takes about 15 minutes to shut, and as the infield became soaked the umpires stopped play.

Some fans booed. Many others had already sought refuge on the concourse. The roof was closed for 71 of the 81 games at Marlins Park last year, mostly because of South Florida’s heat.

Atlanta led 1-0 when the game was halted.