Features

MLB sees fall in attendances

The average attendance at Major League Baseball (MLB) games has dropped by four per cent to 28,830, its lowest figure in over a decade.

According to the Associated Press news agency, MLB’s average attendance had been at least 30,000 for the past 14 seasons but it has dipped below for that mark for the 2018 season.

The AP noted that 17 of the 30 MLB teams have suffered drops in attendances, with Camden Yards (Baltimore Orioles), Guaranteed Rate Field (Chicago White Sox), Target Field (Minnesota Twins), Marlins Park (Miami Marlins, pictured) and PNC Park (Pittsburgh Pirates) all experiencing their lowest gates since opening. The league has pointed to bad weather as a reason for the drop-off.

According to the AP, total attendance in MLB fell to 69.63 million from 72.67 million last year, the figure is much lower than the season high of 79.5 million in 2007. The current average of 28,830 is the lowest since 2003 (28,013).

While league averages are falling, some teams are benefiting from increased attendances, with the Los Angeles Dodgers setting a club record and the Colorado Rockies attracting their biggest crowds since 2001.

The Houston Astros, the reigning World Series champion, have also posted their highest crowds since 2007, with the New York Yankees attracting 23 sellouts at Yankee Stadium.

Image: Dan Lundberg