Indians: Postponing season opener was 'difficult' decision

CLEVELAND (AP) Indians President Chris Antonetti says it was ''difficult'' to postpone Monday's opener against Boston, and he empathizes with those fans affected by the decision.

With temperatures in the low 30s and whipping winds making it feel like 18 degrees, the Indians called off the game. A forecast for light rain or snow would have made the field potentially unsafe.

The Indians were criticized for waiting to announce the postponement. Thousands of fans were lined up at Progressive Field's gates when informed of the decision.

Antonetti says the Indians met with the umpires and members of Boston's front office before bumping the game back one day. He spoke before Tuesday's game when the Red Sox and Indians will begin the 2016 season in warmer weather.