The Reds are raising ticket prices in almost all areas
of Cinergy Field next season, according to John Erardi of
the CINCINNATI ENQUIRER, who reports that the 6,816 premiere
seats "closest to the field" are increasing $7 to $28, which
is twice as much as '98 prices. Erardi writes the rest of
the "hikes are similar," while the only area that remains
unchanged is the "Top Six" $5 seats in the upper deck. Next
season's ticket prices will range from $5 to $28. After
years of "holding the line" on prices, Reds management does
not expect any "fan backlash." Reds COO John Allen: "I
would hope not, especially since over 60% of our seats are
going up only a dollar or two. Most of the $28 seats are
season tickets. ... We hope we don't lose customers, but
feel that if we do, we can sell (any unsold $28 tickets) on
the day of the game." Erardi notes that only four NL teams
had less expensive premium seats last season than the Reds
will have in 2001, the Cubs ($25), Phillies ($22.50),
Pirates ($20), and Padres ($24). Allen noted the loss of
14,000 seats due to construction of Great American Ball Park
as one reason for the increase (CINCINNATI ENQUIRER, 11/30).
