On August 26, 2014, the Kansas City Royals staged a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the ninth, clinching a walk-off victory against the Minnesota Twins. It was a remarkably swift half inning: shortstop Alcides Escobar led off with a single, followed by left fielder Alex Gordon, who hit a home run, providing the two runs needed for the win.
By that point in the season, Kansas City was leading the division and was poised for its first playoff appearance in 29 years—a scenario that ultimately unfolded. However, manager Ned Yost expressed dissatisfaction with the attendance; fewer than 14,000 fans attended the game:
“I mean, what, 13,000 people got to see a great game?” he remarked during his post-game press conference.
“There’s a real need for our fans to be a part of this. We had a great crowd last night, and I was hoping for another great crowd tonight, but we really didn’t see that. They’re a crucial aspect of our success, particularly at home. The energy and electricity they bring help us get through games like this. We’ve been dedicated to pleasing our fans and making them proud for many years, and we’d love to have them here to enjoy a night like this with us. It was a special night. It was an enjoyable night. I only wish more could have joined us to savor it.”
Yost faced considerable backlash from both fans and the media, which was understandable. When playoff season arrived, attending a game at Kauffman Stadium became akin to a religious experience. Every home playoff game sold out, and for those fortunate enough to attend the Wild Card Game, the experience was unforgettable. The very next season, the Royals—known as a small-market team with one of the lowest metropolitan populations in the league—averaged 33,438 fans, placing them in the top 10 for total attendance among all MLB teams.
So, why revisit a minor and seemingly irrelevant moment in Yost’s history? Because ten years later, it feels like déjà vu: while Royals manager Matt Quatraro has wisely chosen to remain silent, a number of fans are echoing Yost’s frustrations about the sparse attendance at home games as the season nears its end. Prominent among these voices is Braiden Turner, whose tweet on August 19—notably one week before the 10th anniversary of Yost’s comments regarding attendance—has gained significant traction, acquiring over 500 likes and being viewed more than 350,000 times.
My god we barely had over 15,000 people at Kauffman tonight. I don’t even know what to say lmao
— Braiden Turner (@bturner23) August 20, 2024
Are the Royals worth watching? Absolutely. Bobby Witt Jr. is on a trajectory to Hall of Fame status, which might sound exaggerated, yet only those who eventually earn induction produce numbers comparable to those Witt is achieving this year. Kansas City boasts what is arguably the best starting rotation in baseball, possesses an 80% likelihood of reaching the playoffs, and is led by Royals icon Salvador Perez.
Moreover, Royals fans are tuning in, and they’re doing so in considerable numbers. In perfect timing, Bally Sports Kansas City sent me a press release detailing viewership stats. The app has experienced nearly 200% growth in unique streamers, while the average game on linear television boasts a 3.3 rating—a 22% increase from the previous year. As for that Monday game that Turner mentioned? It achieved a peak rating of 6.5, marking it the most-viewed broadcast of the year.
Additionally, more fans are attending games in person. In 2023, the Royals averaged 16,136 fans per home game. This year, that figure has risen to 20,264—a 25% increase in attendance within a year. For context, this represents the highest per-game attendance since the 2017 season, which saw an average of 27,754 fans.
But what accounts for the lower turnout this year compared to the peak seasons of 2015-2017? Some speculate it’s due to the stadium’s location, lingering resentment over the team’s push for a new ballpark, or perhaps the city’s sports fandom being spread too thin across multiple franchises. However, none of these theories hold true.
The real and rather mundane explanation for the comparatively low attendance is straightforward: season ticket sales.
As any box office manager (or former box office lead, as I once was) will tell you, season tickets are essential for any ticket-selling organization. Unless operating a small venue, there are thousands—if not tens of thousands—of tickets to sell over the course of a performance series. The Royals, with their expansive stadium, need to fill 3 million seats annually. The primary method to achieve this is through season ticket sales, which often include packages for 81, 40, or even 20 games at once.
The challenge with season ticket sales is their tendency to lag by a year. Like all MLB teams, the Royals complete season ticket sales for the upcoming season at the conclusion of the current one. Think about the situation at the end of September 2023: the Royals had just finished a season with 106 losses. Casual fans are unlikely to purchase season tickets after such a disappointing season. However, should these Royals make the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, those ticket sales will surely follow.
For now, embrace the journey. Those fortunate enough to witness playoff-caliber baseball will have an extraordinary experience. I’m not concerned. Next year, attendance will undoubtedly rise.
“`html
From Yost’s Frustration to Quatraro’s Quiet Resilience: A Decade of Kansas City Royals Attendance Challenges and Triumphs
The Rollercoaster of Kansas City Royals Attendance
Over the past decade, the Kansas City Royals have faced significant challenges in maintaining fan attendance at Kauffman Stadium. From managerial frustrations to inspiring resilience, the journey of attendance fluctuations tells a compelling story of loyalty, community, and the pursuit of excellence in baseball.
Understanding Attendance Trends
In analyzing the attendance trends for the Kansas City Royals, several key factors emerge:
- Performance on the Field: Winning seasons often correlate with increased attendance.
- Community Engagement: Efforts to engage with the local community can significantly enhance fan loyalty.
- Ticket Pricing: Affordable ticket options play a vital role in attracting families and casual fans.
Key Attendance Statistics: A Decade in Review
The following table highlights attendance figures for the Kansas City Royals over the past decade, showcasing both peaks and valleys:
| Year | Average Attendance | Win-Loss Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 21,000 | 86-76 |
| 2014 | 30,000 | 89-73 |
| 2015 | 38,000 | 95-67 |
| 2016 | 31,000 | 81-81 |
| 2017 | 29,000 | 80-82 |
| 2018 | 24,000 | 58-104 |
| 2019 | 24,500 | 59-103 |
| 2020 | 16,000 | 26-34 |
| 2021 | 21,000 | 74-88 |
| 2022 | 24,500 | 65-97 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | And counting… |
The Impact of Managerial Changes
The managerial shifts over the past decade have significantly influenced the team’s dynamics and, consequently, attendance.
Yost’s Frustration and Its Ramifications
Ned Yost, who managed the Royals from 2010 to 2019, played a pivotal role during one of the franchise’s most successful eras. Under his leadership, the team reached the World Series in 2014 and won it in 2015, leading to a spike in attendance. However, by the end of his tenure, fan frustration grew due to inconsistent performance.
– **Key Highlights of Yost’s Era:**
- **2014 & 2015 Success:** Dramatic increase in fan engagement.
– **Post-2015 Decline:** Struggles led to dwindling attendance figures.
Quatraro’s Quiet Resilience
With the appointment of Matt Quatraro as the new manager, the franchise has embraced a fresh perspective. His focus on development and resilience has begun to foster a renewed sense of hope among fans.
– **Quatraro’s Approach:**
– **Player Development:** Emphasizing young talent has attracted attention.
– **Community Engagement:** Strengthening ties with local organizations and schools.
Community Engagement: A Key to Attendance
Effective community engagement is crucial for the Kansas City Royals to boost attendance. The organization has made significant strides over the years through various initiatives.
Programs and Initiatives
– **Youth Programs:** Offering discounted or free tickets to youth baseball leagues encourages the next generation to become fans.
– **Local Partnerships:** Collaborating with local businesses enhances community outreach and fosters loyalty.
– **Fan Events:** Hosting events that allow fans to meet players, attend open practices, and participate in Q&A sessions have proven successful.
Benefits of Community Engagement
Engaging with the local community can yield numerous benefits, including:
- Increased Attendance: Community members are more likely to attend games when they feel a connection to the team.
- Enhanced Team Loyalty: Building a loyal fan base ensures long-term support.
- Positive Public Relations: Strong community ties enhance the team’s reputation.
Challenges Facing the Kansas City Royals’ Attendance
Despite the positive strides, several challenges remain that impact attendance figures.
Economic Factors
The economic landscape has changed significantly, affecting discretionary spending on sports. Factors such as:
– **Ticket Pricing:** Rising prices can deter fans, especially families.
– **Competing Entertainment Options:** With numerous entertainment avenues available, fans may choose alternatives to attending games.
Performance Inconsistencies
Inconsistent on-field performance continues to be a significant challenge. With the Royals having faced multiple losing seasons, maintaining fan interest has become increasingly difficult.
Case Study: Successful Attendance Campaigns
Examining successful attendance campaigns can provide insights into effective strategies.
Case Study: “Royals for the Day” Initiative
The “Royals for the Day” initiative provided free tickets to local schools and community organizations, leading to increased youth attendance. Key outcomes included:
– **Increased Youth Engagement:** Over 10,000 tickets distributed in the first year.
– **Positive Feedback:** Parents reported increased interest in baseball among children.
Lessons Learned
– **Community Involvement:** Engaging directly with the community can lead to increased attendance.
– **Affordability Matters:** Making games accessible for families is crucial to building a loyal fan base.
First-Hand Experiences: Fan Testimonials
Hearing directly from fans can shed light on the emotional connections people have with the Royals and the stadium experience.
Fan Experiences
– **Sarah, a Lifetime Fan:** “I’ve been going to games since I was a kid. The Royals are part of my family traditions. Even during tough seasons, we show our support.”
– **Mike, a New Fan:** ”I was invited to a game through my son’s team. The atmosphere was electric, and I’m hooked now! We can’t wait for our next game.”
Practical Tips for Enhancing Attendance
Here are some practical tips that the Kansas City Royals can employ to enhance attendance:
- Flexible Ticket Pricing: Introduce dynamic pricing models to attract a broader audience.
- Enhanced Game Day Experience: Create family-friendly game day activities.
- Digital Engagement: Leverage social media platforms to connect with younger fans.
The Future of Royals Attendance
As the Kansas City Royals move forward, a blend of effective management, community engagement, and consistent performance will be critical to building a loyal fan base and enhancing attendance. With Quatraro at the helm, fans are hopeful for a resurgence in attendance and team success.
Conclusion
The journey of the Kansas City Royals over the past decade reveals an intricate tapestry of challenges and triumphs. From Yost’s managerial frustrations to Quatraro’s quiet resilience, the focus on community engagement and strategic initiatives is essential in shaping the future of attendance at Kauffman Stadium. By continuing to adapt and innovate, the Royals can once again fill the stands with passionate fans, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
“`
