What's new at PNC Park this year? Inside the ballpark ahead of Pirates home opener

Just days ahead of the Pirates' home opener, we're getting an inside look at what's new for PNC Park for the 2023 season.The team has made a number of improvements to the ballpark, all aimed at enhancing the fan experience.Better flowMany of the enhancements are aimed at getting fans the treats and gear they want more quickly.First, when walking into the gate, you'll notice new sensors scanning fans as they walk in. The team has partnered with Evolv, which will also soon screen fans at Acrisure Stadium.The company's sensors use artificial intelligence to detect dangerous items from everyday items people bring in their bags. They'll improve the speed at which fans can enter the stadium, and allow PNC Park to return to its bag policy from years past.Once again, fans will be able to bring in bags smaller than 16 by 16 by 8 inches.In the main concourse, there will be expanded self-serve beer and drink kiosks placed in locations that won't disrupt foot traffic."Being able to do self-checkout gets them through quickly, back to their seats, and keeps them off the concourse," said team president Travis Williams. "Making sure that fan experience is much, much improved."New scoreboard and video elementsThe scoreboard in left field has been replaced for the first time since 2006. Williams said a larger screen, in addition to other new video elements around the stadium, will allow fans to follow game action better."When we sit at home, we always have our iPhones with us — our second screen experience — looking for stats, looking for more information about the players," he said. "We're going to be able to bring that into the ballpark now."The home opener is set for Friday, April 7 against the Chicago White Sox. Hungry? There's new food optionsAn All-Star burger made of beef from Jubilee Hilltop Ranch in Osterburg, Bedford County, and topped with a signature sauce, caramelized onions and fries.PNC Park is also adding Caliente Pizza. The menu will feature Sicilian, pepperoni and cheese pizza slices.