Visitors to the Arizona Diamondbacks' Chase Field this season will find a different playing surface, some innovative food items and new fan experiences.

The team has installed Shaw "B1K" synthetic grass, replacing the natural grass field the stadium has used since it opened (as Bank One Ballpark) in 1998. In a press release, the D-Backs said the synthetic grass is highly durable and appears "nearly identical" to the previous turf.

The team said the change will save nearly 2 million gallons of water per season and will also conserve cooling energy for the stadium, since the Chase Field roof will not have to be opened to provide sun for the grass on hot summer days.

The stadium also is debuting new food items, including chicken and doughnuts, a fry bread taco, a vegan burger and a strawberry cheesecake shake. And Chase Field's executive chef, Stephen Tilder, collaborated with Charlotte Wilder of Sports Illustrated to create three 18-inch hot dogs that each will be available in two-month intervals during the season.

Other new amenities include a virtual "meet and greet" station where fans can virtually meet D-Backs players and legends, and Tommy Bahama apparel and throwback items at the stadium's team shop.

The D-Backs open their home schedule Friday, April 5, against the Boston Red Sox.