HOW SUITE IT ISN'T

CITIES ARE WINNING AND LOSING TEAMS BASED ON HOW MANY LUXURY BOXES THEY CAN OFFER GREEDY OWNERS

Take me out to the ball game, Take me out to the Diamond View Suites. Buy me some Dijon-marinated jumbo shrimp and Grgich Hills Chardonnay, I don't care 'cause the company will pay...

Given the current state of pro sports economics, Take Me Out to the Ball Game needs a little updating. And so does the antediluvian notion that fan support is the key to franchise success. A ball club needs not only gate receipts and a good media contract but also steady revenue from stadium advertising, sweetheart concession deals and, especially, luxury boxes. "Luxury boxes are critical these days," says...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!