A Forecast Of Scattered Crowds

MLB Teams Already See Economy Hurting Sales

MLB Commissioner Bud Selig this offseason warned of a steep drop in attendance this year due to the economy, and less than three weeks into the season, it appears his foreboding words are being fulfilled. The Giants draw their smallest crowd in the 10-year history of AT&T Park yesterday, and the Pirates see two games this week rank among the lowest attended at PNC Park. Dismal April weather can be blamed for part of the low turnouts, but it is safe to say teams will keep an eye on how, and if, these numbers rebound heading into summer. The Yankees’ battle to sell their four-figure luxury tickets has been well documented, but the multitude of empty seats within range of TV cameras is now being called an “embarrassment.” But MLB is not alone -- the Jazz still have seats available for tonight’s home playoff game against the Lakers, and Roger Goodell says the NFL is “sensitive” about keeping ticket prices reasonable.