Take me out to the ballgame
At one time or another, we’ve all said it or heard somebody else say it: “I don’t bother going to the games anymore … it’s just too expensive.”
While that complaint fits just about any professional sport, Major League Baseball, with its 162-game schedule, is often found on the receiving end of this lament. After all, there aren’t many among us who feel comfortable spending as much as $200 per game, 81 times a year (the number of home games your favorite ball team plays).
Still, the world being how it is, very little can beat a day at the ballpark. The key to enjoying the day is to set your expectations and consider some of the following advice from your friends here at “A Sporting View.”
• Set your budget. In addition to tickets, factor in what it’s going to cost for the requisite soft drinks, hot dogs, candy and souvenirs for the kids, or if you’re with adults, the amount you’re likely spend on beer, peanuts, etc. Soft drinks can run as high as $5.50 and beers up to $7 each, so make sure you’ve got enough cash on hand.
•Consider your travel options. Many cities have downtown ballparks or stadiums that are close to mass transit. When you consider the cost of gas, fighting traffic and the cost of parking (which can run as high as $30-$35 per game), taking a bus, train or subway to the game can make life a whole lot easier. If you’re worried about safety, remember there will be lots of others traveling to and from the game that day (there’s safety in numbers), and there also is likely to be stepped-up law enforcement around the area.
Some cities even feature chartered busses and boats. Check local newspaper listings or the local sports bars to learn of these offers.
•Choose the right seats. Everyone has his or her preferences for seating. For some, the only way to go is field level, others swear by the bleachers, the mezzanine or behind the plate. Each choice has its strengths and weaknesses. For example, if you’re in the upper deck, the subtle nuances of a pitching duel will be lost on you. On the other hand, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of every hit and defensive play made in the game.
If you’re with the family, beware of bleacher seats, where “Bleacher Creatures” have earned their nickname over the years. If confronted by an unruly group during a game, shepherd your family away from the nuisance and to the nearest stadium official, who can either take care of the problem or usher you to new seats.
And remember, spring is the best time to visit the ballpark. Every team is in contention, and the weather is usually just right.
Mark Vasto is a veteran sportswriter and publisher of The Parkville (Mo.) Luminary.