Take Me Out to the Ballgame...

by Julie Gentry | More from this Blogger

29 Apr 2007 10:45 PM

My husband, Paul, and son David love to go to the ballgame. The problem is, with salaries in the stratosphere, ticket prices are outrageous. We've found a better way. Most all of the Major League teams have special promotions. One of our favorites is the Master Card Grand Slam family promotion. On specific Wednesday nights throughout the season, Master Card subsidizes tickets: four tickets, four hotdogs, and four Pepsis for $50. Doesn't sound like a bargain? When you consider that in-the-park hotdogs are $6 apiece and drinks are $4 each, it's a huge savings. There are a lot of other promotions as well. Today, the Mariners were giving out beanies. These are normally $15.95 in the official store. I'd never actually pay that, but they're perfect for Scout campouts.

I'm looking forward to the Equipment Bag night. All kids 14 and under get a free bag. They retail for more than the lowest ticket price. Obviously, we wouldn't go just for the promotions, but they are a great added incentive.

Other ways to save at the ballpark:

• Take the ferry, train, or subway. When we went to Oakland games, it was a lot of fun to be riding BART with hundreds of other fans. The train stopped at the walkway to the entrance. Extremely convenient. Here in Seattle, we take the ferry over and walk a few blocks. It's less expensive for two to take the ferry than it is to park one car. Plus there's no traffic to worry about.
• Want better seats at a bargain price? Purchase a Flex-Pack or other Season Pass. It allows you some of the benefits of a season pass without committing to all the games.
• Eat before you go. If you're like me, you pinch pennies and buy nothing extra in the park. For Paul, the food is part of the experience and he budgets for it. Still, eating before you go means that ONE hotdog will be enough instead of letting your grumbling stomach empty your wallet.
• Bring your camera. A digital photo doesn't cost anything, and will last much longer than that $11 foam finger.

My son told my husband today, "Dad, these are memories I'll never forget." Whatever amount they spent, that statement makes it all worthwhile.

Find MLB romotions for your team here.

Learn more about Julie Gentry

Julie is affectionately known as GoGo Mama to her friends since she seems to always be out and about.

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