The San Francisco Giants are offering season-ticket holders credits for 15% of their ticket price for next season if they attend games against the Cardinals and Twins, and potentially more if the team sweeps a series. This initiative comes as the team faces a historically difficult season, marked by a significant drop in attendance following the August 3 trade deadline.
The email sent to season-ticket holders on August 27 aims to incentivize attendance for weeknight games, stating the organization "shares your disappointment" but wants to provide an "added incentive." Each win in the current series against the Cardinals increases the rebate to 20%.
The offer does not apply to upcoming weekend series against the Padres and Dodgers, which are anticipated to draw larger crowds. The team has struggled significantly, with attendance falling below 30,000 fans for nine of their last 16 home games, a stark contrast to the consistent attendance above 32,000 for their first 56 home dates. This decline began after the team traded away six major league roster players.
Despite the on-field struggles, which have placed the Giants more than 20 games below .500 since August 9 and on pace for their worst record since 2017, the team still ranks eighth in average attendance in Major League Baseball, drawing 35,256 fans per game. The team was the second eliminated from playoff contention this week.
This season has been challenging for the Giants beyond their performance. The organization faced criticism for its handling of a Pride Night event, and key offseason acquisitions have been sidelined due to injury or other incidents. The team's front office decisions have also drawn public scrutiny.
The current roster features new players taking the field at the Major League level, with the team having staved off what would be only its second 100-loss finish in franchise history. The club is attempting to provide these developing players with the experience of playing in front of a large, energetic crowd at Oracle Park.