Workers scramble to clear snow before Indians-White Sox

CHICAGO (AP) The White Sox's home game against the Cleveland Indians has started on time despite a surprise overnight snow in Chicago that left the grounds crew and stadium officials scrambling to get U.S. Cellular Field ready.

The last of the inch or so of snow was removed from the outfield about 45 minutes before Saturday's first pitch. Icy ramps and walkways meant the gates didn't open for fans until 30 minutes before the game, producing lines that snaked around the ballpark.

It was 32 degrees and sunny when the game began.

The upper deck was closed off completely. Fans holding tickets for seats there were moved to the lower level thanks to an expected small crowd.

The field was completely covered in snow before the grounds crew started shoveling it off the tarp four hours before the game. They used hoses and later sprinklers to melt the outfield snow.