This will be an annual topic until the Rays average 30k/game or get a new stadium, whichever happens first. But I believe the Rays will be thinking outside the box on this one.
A new stadium is in order at some point. And that is what is getting the heaviest attention. But take a look at some of the other less noticable "hints" to creativity by the Rays Front Office:
- Radio coverage of the team has stretched up to Orlando. Just this off-season the Rays signed contract with a few radio stations in Orlando to cover the Rays games. Remember those "home" games the Rays played at the Wide World of Sports Complex? Consider it now a success in regional fanbase development.
- Escot Bus Lines is now offering service to 5 counties to eliminate the frustration of traveling to games. This service is offered more extensively on weekends.
- The Rays moving their spring training complex to Port Charlotte expanded their regional base to the south. Their radio coverage will extend southward soon as well, you can bet on it.
The Rays are developing a regional base. TV ratings are up. Radio is up. While the local media would rather complain about "BIS" (Butts in Seats) take a look at the slow, but upward climbing fan base this regime is developing. I see positives here. With more time, the Rays will have a stronger hold on home attendance as well as better income from perhaps tv and radio revenues.
Add this to a new stadium in the next 10 years and the Rays have developed a successful fanbase for the long term. From Orlando to Port Charlotte is a wide area. And they are catching Rays fever.
People, remember how much work this ownership has had to do to clean up the mess by their predecessor. The Rays have made weekend games extremely attractive and attendance has showed. The Saturday Summer Concert Series so far has been a success (although the first one this season was not a sold out crowd).With a little more time and creativity, I'm sure this group will figure out a way to get attendance up on weekdays as well. But there are many positives this organization is doing to drive interest in its product. It just may take a little more time for the "BIS" to develop.
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