The Seattle Mariners have a Positive Image in major league sports

It had been years since Tim and I had been in a major league park -- since we left our beloved Cleveland Indians behind about 6 years ago. So we treated ourselves to a weekday Mariners game in Seattle. Keep in mind, it was a Wednesday game, early in a cold, wet season. The Mariners organization could have mailed it in but they made it a memorable experience.
I am not a big sports fan by any means -- I often joke that I don’t know the difference between a tight end and a tennis ball. It’s the atmosphere that draws people like me to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. Delighted little girls and boys running around, the smell of hot dogs, men with big booming voices yelling “cold beer, right here” and the crack of the bat.
The Mariners take that atmosphere to a higher level. From the team at the front door, to the marketing team in the front office to the team on the field, they all live the brand .
First, fans who purchase tickets ahead of time get not only their confirmation via email, but a nice reminder the day before. It includes a seating chart, information about nearby parking and a scouting report on the scheduled starters. The day after the game, you are thanked for coming and your email includes video highlights of the game, so you can revisit your memories.
The park is beautiful. The roof keeps the rain out and the courteous staff keeps you happy. Like many major league parks, Safeco has imported well known chefs to give foodies alternatives to dogs and popcorn. Seattle clam chowder is offered up in bread bowls. There is a “wine bar” pouring west coast wines. In “The Pen” fans can warm up by an open pit fire and chow down on crepes, gourmet pizza and Mexican sandwiches
But it’s the interaction with the audience that really makes this a special place. Two hours before the game, kids of all ages can saunter up to the front row seats on the first base line, and players will come out in groups of 2’s and 3’s to mingle. They pose for pictures. They sign everything from baseballs to programs to the shirts on people’s backs. They’re cheerful, friendly and approachable. When was the last time you saw that in the NFL?
In professional sports there are far too many “superstars” who expect millions but play like thousands, players who feed off the public adoration but won’t give much back.
The Seattle Mariners win PINpoints for remembering the golden rule: it’s all about the fans

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