Manfred: MLB Teams Expecting Another Attendance Boost in 2025

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed confidence in the continued growth of the sport, projecting another rise in attendance for the 2025 season. This follows a successful 2024 campaign, which saw an average of 29,373 fans per game—the highest since 2017. MLB’s attendance has steadily climbed since the pandemic, with 2023 averaging 29,114 and 2022 at 26,566. While the league has yet to return to its 2007 peak of 32,696 fans per game, Manfred remains optimistic about the sport’s trajectory.

“We do have great expectations for 2025,” Manfred said. “Over the last couple of years, we feel like we’ve made great improvements with respect to the game on the field. We have a great generation of really talented players who are playing a game that’s crisp, athletic, and action-packed.”

Addressing Payroll Disparity

A major topic of discussion in recent seasons has been payroll disparity among MLB teams. Manfred acknowledged that it is a “principal concern throughout the industry,” though he stopped short of committing to a salary cap in the next collective bargaining negotiations. The Los Angeles Dodgers, in particular, have drawn scrutiny for their significant spending in recent offseasons.

Manfred defended the Dodgers, stating, “They’re doing what the system allows. If I’m going to be critical of somebody, it’s not going to be the Dodgers. It’s going to be the system.” However, he admitted that both fans and owners have raised concerns about the financial gap between teams.

Sacramento’s Expansion Potential

During a recent visit to Sacramento’s Sutter Health Park, Manfred hinted at the city’s aspirations for an MLB expansion team. He praised the community’s enthusiasm, calling it “palpable,” and noted that efforts to create a near-major-league experience for players have been substantial.

“The owners of the River Cats and the owners of the A’s have worked very hard together to make sure that, for our players, it is as close to a major league experience as it can possibly be,” he said.

Additionally, Manfred confirmed that the Oakland Athletics’ planned move to Las Vegas remains on schedule, with a projected stadium opening in 2028. While he did not specify a groundbreaking date, sources indicate that June is the most likely timeframe for construction to begin.

Support for Diamondbacks’ Chase Field Renovations

Manfred also addressed the Arizona Diamondbacks’ ongoing efforts to secure public and private funding for renovations at Chase Field. He praised the team’s leadership, noting increased cooperation from local governments.

“There seems to be more of a willingness from the public side to work with the Diamondbacks to find a solution,” said José Romero of the Arizona Republic.

As MLB continues to evolve, Manfred remains focused on maintaining competitive balance and expanding the game’s reach.