Baseball season is about a month away, and fans are getting hyped. However, fans hoping to score seats for Opening Day are experiencing a bit of sticker shock.
Houston Astros pre-sale tickets went on sale this week, and before the general public even has a chance to buy them, they may be sold out.
An Astros media relations representative says they’re experiencing ticket sales unlike they’ve ever seen before and are nearing sellout for Opening Day.
On April 2, the Astros take on the Baltimore Orioles, and ticket prices are out of the park for some. Some seats have tripled in price since last year. The cheapest Opening Day ticket comes in at about $80, and that’s for standing room. A seat behind the dugout will cost about $400. Secondary ticket sales are even higher.
“It is a little bit of a sticker shock,” said fan Barry Thomas, “but it's worth it. “I mean, you get to see the champions!”
"It's worth it,” said fan Tina Jammer. “How often can you be World Series champions and not pick up the price a little bit? It's worth it!”
Online the price hike is getting some negative buzz.
“Tripling and quadrupling opening day prices is ridiculous!,” tweeted @s_pace. “You're price gouging your fans that stuck with you even in the 100 loss seasons.”
“It could be a bad thing,” said fan Austin Crabtree. “Maybe discourage some people from going.”
So far, the Astros are having no problems selling seats as Opening Day sales continue. For fans discouraged by the dramatic price hike, after Opening Day prices are much more affordable.
From 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 2, there will be the Opening Day Street Fest, presented by Budweiser. It will feature music, games, food and more. A game ticket is required for entry. That is also the day the World Series banner with be raised.
There are special moments planned for games all throughout the week, including distribution of the World Series rings to players, which will take place April 3.
General public tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. Friday and are available here or by calling 1-877-9-ASTROS.