masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgWith today’s crowd of 6,900 for this season’s Spring Training finale at Ed Smith Stadium, the Orioles have drawn a total of 119,742 fans for 17 home games in Sarasota, the second-highest spring attendance in club history behind only the 120,455 total set in 2013. Since moving Major League operations to Sarasota, 885,055 fans have enjoyed Orioles Spring Training baseball at Ed Smith Stadium. The Orioles had six consecutive sellouts from March 16 to March 27, helping the club to finish among…

With today’s crowd of 6,900 for this season’s Spring Training finale at Ed Smith Stadium, the Orioles have drawn a total of 119,742 fans for 17 home games in Sarasota, the second-highest spring attendance in club history behind only the 120,455 total set in 2013. Since moving Major League operations to Sarasota, 885,055 fans have enjoyed Orioles Spring Training baseball at Ed Smith Stadium.

The Orioles had six consecutive sellouts from March 16 to March 27, helping the club to finish among the best in attendance in the Grapefruit League this spring. The Orioles ranked third highest in ballpark capacity percentage at 94% (as of data available on March 26). On average, the club welcomed 7,044 people per game.

“The Orioles are proud to continue performing among the top ballclubs in Grapefruit League attendance,” said David Rovine, Vice President of Orioles-Sarasota. “Each spring we enjoy outstanding support from Sarasota area fans and from the tens of thousands of fans who travel to Spring Training. The support from our fans not only helps cheer on the team, but is also a vital factor driving tremendous economic impact in the Greater Sarasota area. We are proud that our facilities at Ed Smith Stadium and Twin Lakes Park continue to thrive as first-class destinations for baseball and entertainment – from Spring Training, Orioles Major and Minor League operations, and Gulf Coast League Baseball, to countless clinics, tournaments, and other baseball, arts, and community events each year.”

A recent independent analysis commissioned by Sarasota County Government concluded that the Orioles generate approximately $89 million in annual economic impact back to taxpayers and residents. By marketing Sarasota to fans in the Mid-Atlantic region, operating a year-round athletic training facility, producing entertainment and sporting events, partnering with charitable causes, and hosting and often subsidizing youth sports tournaments and activities, the Orioles demonstrate an abiding commitment to their Florida home that goes far beyond baseball. For more information, or to sign up for the Orioles in Sarasota e-newsletter, please visit www.orioles.com/sarasota.