Monday, January 23, 2012

Houston Astros New Owner Going To Lower Prices on Tickets And Beer, Will It Bring Fans Back?

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane recently announced several new initiatives for the new 2012 MLB season that I think will draw fans back to Minute Maid Park.

In 2011, the Astros were 19th overall in MLB attendance, averaging 25,518 fans per home game (about 62% capacity).  For a team that had a 56-106 record in 2011, I think that's actually really good.

In order to entice fans back to the ballpark, the Astros are making some changes that will benefit fans:

  • Fans will be allowed to bring in their own water and food
  • Beer prices will drop to $5 for 14 oz
  • Power Club seats that went for $46 last season will now go for $35 and include $15 in meal vouchers
  • Outfield Deck seats are now $5 for adults and $1 for kids up to 14 years of age (last year those adult seats were $7)
  • Season ticket holders will get a 5% loyalty rebate if they renew their tickets by the end of January
  • $30 Mezzanine ticket that also includes All-You-Can Eat hot dogs, peanuts, nachos, popcorn, soda, and water
Crane understands that he needs butts in the seats in order to rebuild his team.  A strong fan base helps a team win, and it also ultimately helps them financially build a better team.  

There are rumors that the team name may change, which is inevitable.  The Astros (Astronauts) was a great name in 1965 when they adopted it, but the space program is a thing of the past.  With a new move to the American League West in 2013, a new name will be needed.

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