The Mariners are now "doing more business than ever" on
their Web site at www.Mariners.org, according to Angelo
Bruscas of the SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER, who wrote that
"computer-generated sales have even made it possible for the
Mariners to discontinue their traditional" merchandise
catalog sales, "building a booming retail market while
saving the team money in overhead, mailing costs, printing
and related expenses." Bruscas added that through April,
online ticket and merchandise sales are up 15.4% from '99.
The Mariners have sold 102,000 tickets online so far this
season, compared to a total of 120,000 in '99, 27,764 in '98
and 17,495 in '97 (SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER, 6/19).
PLAY SUSPENDED: In L.A., Tom Hoffarth reported that TX-
based Web site SportsPlayBooks.com, which had been selling
college and pro football playbooks, has "temporarily
suspended operation" after a "backlash of criticism it
received in the media," including a story in SI that
"questioned its motives." The playbooks were selling for
$23.95 (L.A. DAILY NEWS, 6/19)....SportsTicker has launched
www.HometownReport.com, providing local sports content. The
site will feature daily/weekly local updates (SportsTicker).
