Affordability is the key word for the ’09 season

By Joe Scalzo

NILES — Buck Nights are back. Friday fireworks are back. Jim Traficant Night is back.

And, Scrappers GM Dave Smith hopes, the fans will be back.

Mahoning Valley’s 11th season at Eastwood Field begins tonight against the backdrop of a crummy economy, but Smith is cautiously optimistic about this year’s attendance.

“Our biggest focus this offseason was putting together a more affordable value for fans, considering the economic climate that’s out there right now,” said Smith. “We’ve really tried to focus on affordability.”

The Scrappers averaged 3,426 fans per game last summer, the lowest in Eastwood history. Mahoning Valley averaged more than 5,000 fans per game its first two seasons and never dropped below 4,000 until 2006.

Some of last year’s dropoff was due to weather — during one stretch, it rained on 31 of 38 dates and that rain often came around 5 p.m. when fans were deciding whether to attend. Some of the dropoff was due to the team’s history — after 10 years, minor league baseball is no longer a novelty. And some of it was, yes, due to the economy, which even then was showing signs of weakness.

“As we go in existence, it gets more challenging to sell season tickets, so we’re focusing more on individual families,” said Smith. “If anything, we’re cautiously optimistic that the community is going to respond to the programs and the discounts we’ve put in place.

“I’m honestly going into this year hoping we’ll see an increase this year.”

This is Smith’s 10th year with the Scrappers — the last six as GM — and his 14th in minor league baseball. He’s learned the importance of promotions, of making each night special. Because it’s short season Class A, the Scrappers don’t have to sell tickets in the often chilly and rainy April and May months.

But that comes at a cost. With just 38 home games, each one matters more.

“People aren’t going on as many vacations, so they’ll be looking for things to do in their own community,” Smith said. “We’re hoping they’ll come to the ballpark.”

The Scrappers unveiled a new logo in the offseason, which has already boosted merchandise sales. They’re bringing back Thursday Buck Nights, where tickets, drinks and hot dogs are $1, along with Friday fireworks and Sunday family fun day. And, on Sept. 6, they’ll hold Traficant Release Night, in honor of the former congressman’s release from prison.

“The reality is Jim was a big supporter of the organization here and was a big part of bringing this stadium to the community. We think he should be recognized for that.”

The biggest promotions, of course, are baseball and summer. With tickets ranging from $7 to $9, those two things are plenty affordable.

“We’re ready to get the games and the fans here,” he said. “That’s why we work all offseason.”