Steve Cohen’s frustration over decreasing attendance at Citi Field has ignited heated debates among New York Mets fans. The Mets saw a 9.5 percent drop in their ticket sales last season. The team ranked 18th in MLB, despite a late-season surge that carried the Mets to the NLCS. Steve Cohen said, “I did not like it. It really bothered me. People did not show up. I cannot speak for why that is.” However, fans had much to say. From soaring ticket costs to a sluggish beginning, multiple aspects guided to empty seats. The situation raises vital concerns—how much are fans ready to pay and what can the team do to manage this issue?

The most vital aspect behind the attendance drop was the mix of high prices and lowered expectations. After a 75-87 finish in 2023 despite a $375 million payroll, the team scaled back investing in 2024, highlighting a transition year. In addition, a 9-19 record in May as well as an 11-game deficit by June reinforced the concerns of the fans. Citi Field’s 3,500-fan-per-game decrease pushed the New York Mets from 6th in 2022 to 18th in MLB. While the Phillies as well as the Braves drew large crowds, Mets fans hesitated, unsure if the Queens were worth the budgetary commitment early in the season.

The cost of attending games just made things worse. New York Mets parking hit $40, while beer neared $20. Such expenses made a single outing a hefty cost. Longtime fan Evan Roberts identified the lack of excitement and said, “They have as bad a season in 2023 as humanly possible… then they do not do anything that excites people.”In addition, season ticket purchasers, like Bill Pagan, regretted purchases, highlighting, “I was looking at the secondary market at $15 tickets and mine are $50.”However, the Guardians launched $49 monthly passes, highlighting affordability that could drive attendance elsewhere.

What other teams did distinctively the New York Mets

While the New York Mets struggled, other teams identified ways to keep fans engaged. For instance, the Guardians launched a $49 standing-room monthly pass. It led to a notable attendance boost. The Phillies, who invested largely in stars, saw a 14 percent jump in 2024 attendance. This situation highlights that investing in a star pays off. The Baltimore Orioles, once near the bottom in attendance, saw an enhancement as the team’s young base became contenders. In addition, the Dodgers, after acquiring Shohei Ohtani, identified a surge in their ticket sales, selling out multiple games early in the season. It highlights that blockbuster moves drive fans.

On the contrary, the New York Mets relied on a late-season rally as well as the Juan Soto signing to regain excitement. However, for months, Queens remained half-empty. As Keith Blacknick said, “At the beginning of the year, the team was horrible. Fans saw it as a punt year until things clicked late.”If the New York Mets intend to sustain attendance, the team needs to manage affordability with a competitive roster from Opening Day instead of hoping a midseason surge will fill the seats. Free agents like J.D. Martinez could provide veteran leadership. There is José Quintana, still available after his Mets contract expired, who could add depth to the team’s rotation. Looking ahead, the New York Mets could target Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in 2025. This move would effectively enhance ticket sales and fan excitement. Without such reinforcements, the New York Mets risk another slow start.

Fans have made their frustrations clear; high costs and inconsistent performance are driving them away. If the New York Mets need Citi Field packed again, the team needs to lower costs and invest in a winning product from the start. The Guardians and Phillies have proven there is an outcome. Do you think the Mets need to adopt their lead? Sound off on your thoughts.