The 2019 season has yielded positive results at the gate for the Chicago White Sox, whose attendance numbers thus far mark a significant increase from the same point in 2018.
Going into the All-Star break, the White Sox had an average paid attendance increase of 4,040 fans from last season’s All-Star break. That figure represents the highest such jump by an American League team, and is second in all of Major League Baseball to only the Philadelphia Phillies. Total attendance, meanwhile, has seen an increase of 177,761 fans from the same point last season, a more than 22% improvement.
While the White Sox are clearly seeing improvements in the number of fans who turn out to Guaranteed Rate Field, television ratings have been stronger as well this season. After losing 100 games in 2018, the White Sox are showing signs of progress this season with a 42-47 record entering Monday’s action, thanks to solid seasons from a contingent of young players that are prompting hope of a bright future. More from the Chicago Sun Times:
The Sox got a boost in June after hosting the Yankees in a four-game series, including crowds of 36,074 and 37,277 on a Friday and Saturday, and two sellouts for the Cubs last weekend, 38,634 and 38,554.
TV audiences are on the rise for the Sox, too. Their broadcasts on NBC Sports Chicago averaged a 1.18 Chicago market household rating, the highest team average since 2014 (1.38) and up 36 percent compared to the 2018 All-Star break.
As it relates to the fan experience at Guaranteed Rate Field, the White Sox did make a few improvements coming into this season, including a new outfield seating section sponsored by Goose Island Beer Company and changes to the already solid food and beverage slate at the ballpark. The White Sox have been on the road since action resumed Friday following the All-Star break, and will return to Guaranteed Rate Field on July 22.