The Orioles announced recently that they would not be raising season ticket prices for 2015 which came as a surprise to many. The Birds are back baby, and with that usually comes the opportunity to cash in by taking the cost of the experience up a bit.
Not this time. Apparently, cooler heads prevailed. Maybe the powers to be are realizing that if a decent product is put on the field, people will come, fill more seats, and spend more money beyond the ticket price. Makes sense….dollars and sense.
Attendance will certainly rise now that the O’s are back over .500 and seeing some postseason action. It will rise some more if it can remain somewhat affordable to get in. Good tickets are still pricey, but you can get a general admission/standing room ticket – basically a cover charge – and enjoy the “experience.” Camden Yards was recently named a top stadium experience winner and second in baseball only to Fenway. I’ve been to Fenway and trust me, there is no comparison. Fenway is old, dirty and limited in its offerings; the history is the only thing making it worthwhile to see.
The general admission tickets at the Yards are not for the family of four, or taking grandpop and granny to the ball game, they are for the younger generation who have no problem going for the experience. Plenty of room to roam, gather with friends, catch a pitch here and there on one of the countless TVs throughout the place, snag a homer in the flag court, and plunk down $8 for a draft. Ever been to the center field bar and viewing terrace? It’s like Hammerjacks for baseball enthusiasts.
They’ve done a good job of bringing in the local fare as well…Boog is there a good bit, happy to pose for a pic with anyone who ponies up for a $12 pit beef sammy, Gino’s is slinging giants, Pollack Johnny is still breathing (can we say Pollack these days Archie?)
Roma Sausage, made a few miles from the ball park, has their Natty Boh Brats, and Old Bay sausages throughout, and the ’83 World Series MVP is happy to have an adult beverage with you at his place on Eutaw Street. Anything you want, you’ll find. There’s even a kosher food joint.
I usually get a reserved seat when I go. I’m older, but after I have a craft beer or two, it’s off to general admission land, and guess what, I see plenty of folks I used to see at Hammerjacks back “in the day.”
I just leave the phrase “hey, let me buy you a drink” at home.
submitted by Jeff Kief
