Why does MLB have day games during the week?

Introduction to MLB Day Games on Weekdays

Major League Baseball (MLB) is the oldest professional sports league in the US. It is also the most popular sport in the country, with millions of fans tuning in to watch games every season. As such, MLB teams have a variety of game schedules throughout the year, with games both on the weekends and during the week. One of the most popular game formats is the day game on weekdays, which is a staple of the MLB season.

What Are Day Games?

Day games are games that start in the afternoon and end late in the evening. They are typically held during business hours, allowing fans to attend the game and then return home in the evening. Day games are typically shorter than night games, with a three-hour time limit for each game.

Why Does MLB Have Day Games During the Week?

There are a few reasons why MLB teams choose to have day games on weekdays. These include:

Tradition

MLB day games have been a part of the league for many years. It is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and is a part of the culture of the game. This is one of the reasons why teams continue to hold day games during the week.

Reaching New Audiences

Day games on weekdays allow teams to reach new audiences. Many people who work during the week may not be able to attend night games, so they can take advantage of the day games on their days off. This helps teams reach a wider audience and gain more fans.

Attracting Children

Day games on weekdays are also a great way to attract children and families to the ballpark. Many schools are out on certain days of the week, so kids can come out and enjoy a game with their parents. This helps teams create a younger fan base and build relationships with younger fans.

Creating a Home Field Advantage

Day games during the week can also give teams a home field advantage. The home team can have a large crowd in attendance, which can create a loud and energetic atmosphere. This can give the home team a boost and help them win the game.

Minimizing Travel

Day games on weekdays can help minimize travel for teams. This is because teams have more time to travel between games, which can help them save money and time. This is beneficial for teams as they can focus their resources on other aspects of the game.

Maximizing Exposure

Day games during the week can also help teams maximize their exposure. This is because the games are broadcast on television and radio, allowing more people to watch and listen to the game. This can help teams gain more fans and generate more revenue.

Pros and Cons of Day Games During the Week

While there are many benefits to having day games during the week, there are also some drawbacks. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of day games on weekdays:

Pros:

  • Tradition: Day games are a part of the long-standing tradition of the MLB.
  • Reaching New Audiences: Day games allow teams to reach new audiences and gain more fans.
  • Attracting Children: Day games on weekdays are a great way to attract children and families to the ballpark.
  • Creating a Home Field Advantage: Day games can create a loud and energetic atmosphere, giving the home team a boost.
  • Minimizing Travel: Day games can help teams save money and time as they have more time to travel between games.
  • Maximizing Exposure: Day games are broadcast on television and radio, allowing more people to watch and listen to the game.

Cons:

  • Heat: Day games can be very hot, which can be uncomfortable for players and fans.
  • Lack of Fans: Many people are still at work during the day, so attendance at day games is often lower than night games.
  • Lack of Excitement: Day games can be less exciting than night games, as the atmosphere is not as electric.
  • Reduced Viewing Options: Day games can be difficult to watch on television or online, as many people are still at work during the day.
  • Costs: Day games can be more expensive for teams, as they have to pay for additional staff to work during the day.

Conclusion

MLB day games during the week are a part of the league’s long-standing tradition. They allow teams to reach new audiences, attract children and families, create a home field advantage, minimize travel, and maximize exposure. However, day games can also be uncomfortable due to the heat, have lower attendance, be less exciting, reduce viewing options, and be more expensive for teams.

Ultimately, day games during the week are an important part of the MLB season and allow teams to reach new audiences and create a home field advantage. They are also a great way for fans to enjoy the game and create lasting memories.

References

  • MLB.com. (2020). Major League Baseball: The Official Site of Major League Baseball. Retrieved from mlb.com/.
  • Staiano, A. (2020). What Is a Day Game in Baseball? Retrieved from thoughtco.com/what-is-a-day-game-in-baseball-3290658.
  • Souza, D. (2020). Major League Baseball: Pros and Cons of Day Games During the Week. Retrieved from sportsrec.com/520950-major-league-baseball-pros-cons-day-games-during-week.html.