There’s usually two reasons baseball fans like to arrive early at a stadium.
In the case of the new SunTrust Park, it's probably to beat the inevitable game day traffic.
But for those die-hard baseball fans, it also gives them a chance to watch players partake in an essential pregame tradition: batting practice.
So whether you’re a Braves fan or NL East fan from out-of-town, here is a quick guide to batting practice at SunTrust Park.
What time does batting practice start?
A typical MLB batting practice session in begins two-three hours before first pitch.
For 7:10 p.m. games, the Braves hit at 4:40 p.m. and the visitors swing at 5:40 p.m.
For 7:35 p.m. games, batting practice starts at 5:05 p.m. and opponents hit at 6:05 p.m.
For 1:35 p.m. games, the Braves hit at 11:05 a.m. and visiting team starts at 12:05 p.m.
How long are batting practice sessions?
The Braves will take their swings first for 45 minutes to an hour.
Visiting teams will then step into the cage for about 15 to 30 minutes if they choose to participate.
How can I watch batting practice?
The Braves offer an option to purchase a "Batting Practice Experience" ticket, which allows fans to stand on the warning track behind home plate and watch their favorite players.
Those with batting practice experience tickets should arrive three hours before game time and enter at the Right Field Gate, which is located across from the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre.
For fans without an Experience ticket, the Chop House and premium club gates open two hours before first pitch.
Fans can watch the Braves' batting practice from the outfield seats regardless of where their seats are located, according to Braves spokesperson Beth Marshall.
Where do I get tickets for the batting practice experience?
The Braves suggest that fans purchase their passes in advance online or through a ticket representative. Prices can range from $75 to $120.
Passes may be available for purchase on game day at the SunTrust Park ticket office if they are not sold out. The experience is not available for day games, including Sunday afternoons.
For families planning a Braves outing, children over three must have an experience pass too and children 16 and under must have an adult accompany them.
What happens if there is bad weather on gameday?
In case of bad weather, a practice session may get canceled and fans who purchased the experience may exchange it for a different game later in the season.
There are no exchanges or refunds if 30 minutes has passed and weather ends practice early.
