The Red Sox "have encountered trouble selling tickets for the first time in recent memory," so as part of the team's "push to be more welcoming to the fans," the Sox are offering free food and reduced-price beer at home games in April, according to Amalie Benjamin of the BOSTON GLOBE. Kids under 14 "will eat free -- well, before the third inning, provided they go to specially designated concession stands to pick up their Fenway Frank, Goldfish, and carton of juice." Around the park, fans can buy one hot dog and "get a second for free." Hot chocolate will "be sold for half-price," and beer will be "sold for $5 per 12-ounce cup, down from between $7.50-$8.50." It is clear that the Red Sox are "ready to admit to fan dissatisfaction and capitulate to fan demand for a friendlier environment." Tickets remain for all home dates in April, and the Sox "hope that the fan appreciation discounts will help boost ticket sales." Red Sox COO Sam Kennedy said, "We're looking for ways to fill the ballpark, and hopefully this will help." In another "family-friendly move, or one in response to chilly April evenings," 11 of 17 April home games will start before 7:00pm ET, including eight "true afternoon games and three games with a first pitch" set for 6:35pm (BOSTON GLOBE, 3/26). Aramark runs the concessions at Fenway Park (THE DAILY).
