Philadelphia Man Hopes To Brighten Baltimore With Baseball 'Re-Opening Day'

By Kristen Johanson

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's been a trying time for the City of Baltimore, following the death last month of a man in police custody and subsequent rioting.

But an event tonight, organized by a Philadelphia resident, seeks to recapture the spirit of Maryland's largest city, known as "Charm City."

Sam Angell, a Baltimore native, says he saw the daunting images on TV two weeks ago and was devastated.

"I saw everything that was going on in my hometown," he recalls. "And I am still a huge Orioles fan, so canceling the home game and playing a game in an empty stadium sort of hit close to home."

That's when Angell thought to organize a second home opener for the team, which he is calling "Re-Opening Day."

"Opening Day always brings such a sense of optimism and such an enthusiasm and a fan base for Orioles fans, but really for all fans of baseball," he tells KYW Newsradio, "and I thought that was exactly what Baltimore needed right now."

Angell hopes the event also pumps money into local businesses, which lost income during the protests and raids. Thousands say they'll be there tonight to see the O's take on the Blue Jays -- the same team they played on opening day.