baseball

So You Caught a World Series Home Run — What's It Worth?

Carrie Kirby — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 09:00:05 +0000

With two teams who haven't seen this apex of baseball for many decades, the World Series of 2016 will be a historic one no matter if the Chicago Cubs or the Cleveland Indians triumph. Every home run sent sailing into the Progressive Field stands or onto Waveland Avenue outside Wrigley Field will be a valuable piece of sports history, especially the first home run hit by a Cub, says sports memorabilia expert Robbie Davis Jr.

If you were lucky enough to be there, what would happen if you caught the home run ball? Would you get to keep it? Should you?

The ownership of home run balls — and other significant balls like World Series final out balls — is legally murky, but according to tradition, fans who catch a ball are allowed to take them home. Actually getting a World Series ball home may take perseverance, and deciding what to do with it will be a serious matter.

You'll Be Approached by Team Representatives

It's common for staff to ask fans to return balls that are considered historically important or would be meaningful to the player. "That will certainly happen with any home run ball hit in this series," says Davis, one of the owners of Robbie's First Base, the Maryland memorabilia shop featured in the reality show Ball Boys. Usually, the fans are offered something in exchange.

For example, a pair of Cubs fans caught Willson Contreras' home run ball in the deciding game of the National League Championship this year, and were immediately offered a pair of World Series tickets and a meeting with the Cubs catcher in exchange for it. They happily accepted.

Other fans haven't been as thrilled with their offers. The memorabilia collector who caught Alex Rodriguez's 660th home run ball scoffed at the team's offer of a signed bat. And the Philadelphia Phillies caught major flack — and a lawsuit — when they talked a 12-year-old girl into trading Ryan Howard's 200th career home run for an ordinary signed ball. Once the lawsuit hit the press, the team gave the ball back to the girl.

Don't Make a Split Second Decision

Ballplayers on the field need to follow their instincts when deciding what to do with a ball they catch — throw to first base or home? But you have the liberty of thinking it over. For example, when a fan caught A-Rod's 3,000th hit, he turned down the Yankees' offered merchandise trade. Later, he negotiated for the team to donate $150,000 to a charity of his choice, and he also received some signed memorabilia — clearly a much better deal than officials had initially offered.

"I would leave with it that night and then start fielding offers," Davis says. The team and Major League Baseball will certainly try hard to stop a home run ball from leaving the stadium, but teams usually only offer merchandise or the chance to meet players, while collectors offer cash. With a ball this potentially valuable, he says, "I would want to get paid."

Even for a home run during an ordinary game, the staff's first offer may not be their last.

"At Progressive Field, the Indians first offer tickets to an upcoming game and an autographed ball. In rare cases, the club has granted an opportunity to meet the player or watch batting practice on the field," an MLB.com article explained.

Don't feel bad about holding out for a better offer — after all, even Cleveland Indian Brandon Moss' teammates asked for iPhones and Macbooks in exchange for his 100th home run ball, which landed in the bullpen.

Get the Ball Authenticated

The modern sports market depends on authentication. MLB authenticators are at every World Series game, attaching unique hologram stickers to just about everything used, from bases to buckets of dirt to balls. While the MLB website asserts that they don't authenticate balls for fans, Davis says that in practice, the on-site authenticators will hologram the ball for you even if you don't relinquish it. Without a hologram, it would be difficult to sell the ball for anything near its potential value.

Let Security Escort You Out of Your Seat

One thing you may not have considered when you stuck your glove out to snag that ball is that catching the ball will probably be the end of the game for you.

"You're going to have to leave the stadium," Davis says. "Because everybody knows now these balls are worth something. You need the police to protect you and that ball."

Consider Your Options — and the Financial Implications

If you take the ball home, your options are: returning the ball to the team, keeping it as a souvenir, or trying to sell it. Keep in mind that, according to the IRS, if you keep the ball, you will have to pay taxes on it's market value, even if you don't sell it.

What kind of market value are we talking about? Mark McGuire's 70th home run ball still holds the price record after being sold for $3 million in 1999. But non-milestone home run balls that happen to be hit during the World Series are not in that league. Even a certified ball with Joe Dimaggio's autograph from the 1941 World Series is listed for only around $3,000 on eBay, and a less famous signed World Series ball, from 1999, is priced at $79.99.

However, Davis figures a home run hit in this historic fall classic is more in the McGuire league than the typical World Series ball — especially the first home run hit by a Chicago Cub in the series.

"To put a definitive number on it is going to be hard. But if the first home run a Cub hits in the World Series is at Wrigley, it could be through the roof," Davis says. His best guess is that the first Cub World Series home run in more than 70 years will sell for a million dollars, or end up on display in the Hall of Fame — or both.

Davis has one piece of advice for those who want to sell: "Strike while the iron is hot." While waiting a day or a week won't diminish a historic ball's value, letting years go by could. He saw one customer pass up an offer of $250,000 for a historic home run ball he'd caught — only to end up settling for $45,000 later.

Consider the Value to the Team or Player

When a home run ball is caught by a true fan, often the thought of being able to give something back to the player who has brought them so much joy trumps any possible compensation. When Cubs pitcher Jake Arrieta hit a three-run homer in San Francisco during this year's National League Division Series, the fan who caught it happily traded in the ball, saying, "The experience was catching the ball. Of course the ball should be back with Jake."

Davis says that when teams say they will give the ball back to the player, they're as good as their word. Even if the player agrees to display their historic ball in Cooperstown, it will still belong to him. But why take the team's word for it? If you're going to be nice enough to give a historic home run back to one of your heroes, why not insist on placing it in his hands yourself? Meeting a player you idolize one on one, and hearing him express his appreciation, is an experience that no amount of money could buy.

This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Money Lessons We Can Learn From Baseball

Tim Lemke — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 09:01:03 +0000

We're deep into baseball's postseason, and we'll soon be left to fend for ourselves in the long, cold winter. But even in the offseason, the National Pastime can teach us many good lessons, like, the value of working as a team, and how even the best people can fail more often than not.

Baseball can teach us about money, too. When you examine the game, you can come away with some lessons that will help you manage your spending and your investments.

Consider these truths about the game we love.

1. It's a Long Season

Do you get upset when your baseball team loses a game or two? Do you have trouble with the ups and downs of the season? When you're a fan of team, it's easy to forget that there are a lot of games to be played, and the only thing that matters is where you finish.

Your investing approach should reflect a similar reality. Don't get emotional about a stock price being down on any individual day. Like a baseball team, the stock market can slump, but often rebounds. Keep your eyes on your long-term financial goals, and eventually you'll be popping Champagne just like a team that won the title.

2. Homers Are Great, But So Are Singles and Doubles

In baseball, you'd love to have a team that hits a lot of home runs. But you might be just as successful if you have a team that just gets on base and knocks in runs one by one. This is true when it comes to investing. While we'd all like to see that single stock that explodes and makes us rich, the reality is that most of your success will come from small, incremental gains that compound over time.

3. Protect Your Lead

Every good baseball team has a "closer," or a pitcher who comes in late in the game to get the final outs. When investing, it's also smart to have a plan for protecting your investments when you approach retirement age. As you get older, it's wise to move away from growth stocks and other more volatile investments, and move toward bonds, stable dividend stocks, and cash. This way, your retirement fund will be protected even if there is a big downturn in the stock market.

4. It's Okay to Take a Risk

Sometimes in baseball, you need to try and run for home even though you might be tagged out. If you play too conservatively, you may not win. This is also true for investing. A young person who is investing for the long term will never get rich if they have a conservative portfolio. Most financial advisers recommend investing in mostly stocks when you're young, because the risk is usually outweighed by the potential for higher returns. Sure, you'll get burned sometimes. But more often than not, you'll come out ahead.

5. It's Simpler Than You Think

Baseball has a thick rule book, and it's not easy to master. But at it's core, it's pretty easy to understand. Throw the ball. Hit the ball. Catch the ball. And try to score more than your opponent. Money management and investing are simple things, too, even though they can seem intimidating. Spend less than you earn. Invest as much as you can, in things that mirror the overall performance of the stock market. Get the basics right, and you'll do fine.

6. Think Globally

Baseball may be an American sport, but it's an international game. It's played around the world, from the tropical ball fields of the Caribbean to busy cities like Tokyo. And Major League Baseball teams know that they need to look globally to find the very best talent. Your approach to money and investing should also take on an international approach. Consider investing in emerging markets that offer strong potential for growth. Take a look at currency trading, or even international commodities. There is money to be made if you look outside the United States to build your investment portfolio.

7. Limit Your Mistakes

No one's perfect, either in baseball or with their money. But frequent errors can mean the difference between winning and losing. In baseball, fielders want to catch the ball and throw it accurately. Batters want to avoid swinging at bad pitches. Pitchers want to avoid walking in the winning run.

Your finances are just as vulnerable to being hurt by mistakes. Don't buy things you can't afford. Don't invest in things you don't understand. Don't raid retirement funds without understanding the consequences. There are many things you can do wrong to send your financial planning off the rails. With baseball and with your money, it's important to play smart.

8. Look for Value

The best-selling book Moneyball by Michael Lewis outlined how the Oakland Athletics were able to field competitive teams despite having a lower payroll than most competitors. The book's core message was that the A's had developed ways to find players that were undervalued by the rest of the league. This desire to find "value" is a key part of money management. When looking to buy something, remember that expensive items aren't always the best. Look for a good combination of quality and price. When looking to purchase stocks, seek out companies that may be undervalued by the marketplace.

This article is from Tim Lemke of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Watch Sports Without Cable TV

Aaron Crowe — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 10:36:08 +0000

One of the first things I discovered when cutting the cable TV cord — and something I planned for a little, but not enough — was how to watch live sports without having a cable bill to pay. (See also: Cutting the Cable Cord Has More Than Financial Benefits)

Cutting the cable cord will save you money, but if you're a sports fan, you'll likely spend a month or two of savings on a season package for your favorite sport. For me, it was baseball, but without being able to follow the local teams.

The MLB.TV season package that I bought for $100 before the baseball season started worked well on our Roku to stream games to the television, but games of our local teams were blacked out. They were available for streaming after the game, but I'm not excited about having to avoid the final score before watching a game that is long over. Luckily, I'm also a fan of a team that's far from where I live, so I watch those games live and get my baseball fix that way.

Unless you're going to a friend's house or a bar to watch a game live, you'll likely run into the score; a friend may blab it on Facebook, or you'll see it on your smartphone, hear it on the radio, or see it somewhere. Facebook and Twitter are especially important to avoid if you don't want to know the score before you watch a delayed game. When Matt Cain pitched a perfect game for the San Francisco Giants this year, it was all over the Internet and knowing the outcome took away the excitement of watching the game on MLB.TV after it was over.

I'm not about to spend a few hundred dollars on a big outdoor antenna to get free over-the-air broadcasts of games by the local baseball teams, so I'm out of luck if I want to watch games live as they happen. In my area, at least, an indoor antenna didn't work well; the site AntennaWeb can help you find what signals are available near you. For now, I either listen to local games on the radio or follow them pitch by pitch online.

While I only have personal experience with with Major League Baseball, several other sports offer non-cable packages, including:

NFL: NFL Game Rewind is $40 for a season to replay NFL games, or NFL Sunday Ticket lets you watch live games for $200 all season on a variety of devices.
NBA: NBA League Pass lets you watch games online, on a mobile device, or on TV on a streaming device such as a Roku for $179 a year, with or without a lockout.
NHL: NHL GameCenter Live is available for about $80 a year to watch hockey on everything from a TV to an iPad or phone.
NASCAR: If you'd like to watch old NASCAR races, iTunes sells some of the classic races for $2 each.

The 2012 NCAA March Madness men's basketball games cost only $4 for all 67 games of the tournament on computers, iPads, and other mobile devices, according to the Kick Out Cable website. The games were free in previous years, though if it again costs only $4 for the entire tournament, it beats paying a monthly cable bill.

With all of these options, one of the most important things to have without cable is a fast Internet connection. Without it, watching anything will be difficult.

With the Olympics about to start, the summer looks like a bad time to stop paying for TV. NBC is allowing people to watch Olympic events live online, including on a smartphone or tablet, for free — if they have a paid cable/satellite package that includes CNBC and MSNBC. It's simple enough to sign up for: Choose your TV provider, sign in with your username and password, then watch every event live. It's quite an enticement for paying for cable TV through mid-August.

It's no fun turning around after getting rid of cable TV and giving your money to someone else so you can watch sports, but you'll still save more money by watching exactly what you're paying for instead of paying for a potpourri of sports programming you rarely watch. I'm not an NFL fan, but I'll gladly pay for a season of baseball.

And chances are that if you've cut the cable cord, you're going to cut other related costs to save money and can use some of that extra savings to pay for a sports package or two. A survey by TechBargains.com found that people who have disconnected their home telephone service are twice as likely to also cut the cable cord. One in three who discontinued cable or satellite services said they wouldn't return regardless of the price.

So if you're looking for incentive to cut cable and buy a season of your favorite sport, it's reassuring to know that plenty of people have done the same thing and aren't returning to cable or satellite service.

And if that doesn't work, go to your local sports bar whenever a big game is on. Just be prepared to spend some money on other forms of entertainment while you're there.

This article is from Aaron Crowe of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

A Complete Guide to Saving at America's Baseball Stadiums

Mikey Rox — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 10:36:08 +0000

Many people don’t know this about of me, but I love a good baseball game.

The cheering crowd, the grilled hot dogs, the well-fitted uniforms — they’re all reasons I head to the stadium any chance I can.

But these days, enjoying a night out at the ballpark can cause serious pain to your pocket. Unless, of course, you know how to root, root, root for the home team like I do. I’ve been to stadiums all across America, and before I go, I do my research on how and where I can cut costs. And now you can, too.

In this first-of-its-kind article (I’m totally sticking by that statement since I couldn’t find anything like this online), I’m giving you the 411 on how to save more money and better enjoy America’s favorite pastime at every Major League Baseball stadium in the United States (and that lonely one in Canada). Batter up! (See also: 10 Inexpensive Weekend Getaways Anyone Can Take)

1. Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles Dodgers)

Ticket savings at Dodger Stadium include:

A Coca-Cola Value Pack, which includes four tickets, four Dodger Dogs, and four Cokes, starting at $18 per seat
Military discounts on tickets as low as $7 (day of game only; proper military ID is required)
$7 and $10 tickets for kids ages four to 12 in the Top Deck and Left Field Pavilion sections
$12 off Loge Level tickets to Auto Club members
$25 off Field Level tickets when you use your MasterCard
$10 Lower Reserve level tickets for students with IDs

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and other soft drinks (plastic only) of one-liter in size or less.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food as long as it’s not in bottles, cans, coolers, or thermoses.

The Jr. Dodgers Fan Club for Kids is free for kids 14 and younger. Membership includes the opportunity to participate in Kids Take the Field, where kids are given first priority to run the bases after Sunday day games; the opportunity to be featured as Jr. Dodger of the Game and featured on Dodgervision; and the opportunity to say “It’s Time for Dodger Baseball” over the speaker before a game.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away to the first 50,000 ticket holders at nearly every home game, excluding Friday nights. Check the giveaway schedule here.

2. Coors Field (Colorado Rockies)

Ticket savings at Coors Field include:

A Coca-Cola Value Pack, which includes four tickets, four food and beverage vouchers, one parking ticket, and one Rockies magazine, for $59 in the upper level and $79 in the lower level
PowerTickets, which are list-price tickets in the Midfield Box and Outfield Club sections that are loaded with an additional $10 to $15 in concession credits for select games, available only at ColoradoRockies.com
Rockpile seats, available for each game for $4 to adults (four ticket limit per person per game) and $1 to children age 12 and younger and seniors age 55 and older (two ticket limit per person per game)
Guys Night Out and Ladies Fan Club discounts

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and other soft drinks (plastic only) that are less than 22 oz.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food as long as it fits in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

The Silver Sluggers Senior Fan Club, for adults age 55 and older, includes two tickets to six games for $121.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

A bike lot is provided to ticket holders keen to reduce their carbon footprints.

3. Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees)

Ticket savings at Yankee Stadium include:

$5 tickets to select games in selects areas of the Terrace Level, Grandstand Level, or Bleachers
10% to 25% off select Tuesday night home games in select areas of the Grandstand Level
25% off advanced ticket purchases in select areas of the Grandstand Level for families on designated Monday to Thursday games; half off advanced ticket purchases in select areas of the Terrace Level, Grandstand Level, or Bleachers for select games
$5 tickets for senior citizens age 60 and older for select Monday to Thursday games (day of game only; valid ID is required)
Half-price tickets to designated areas for students with a valid high school or college ID (day of game only)
Half-price tickets to designated seating areas for kids age 14 and younger, when accompanied by an adult, for Saturday games (day of game only)
For active military members with a valid ID, one FREE ticket to select Monday to Thursday games for select areas of the Grandstand Level or Bleachers or a half-price ticket to other non-premium seating locations (day of game only)

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and other soft drinks (plastic or soft-sided only) of one-liter in size or less. Empty plastic sports bottles also are permitted.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food for individual consumption as long as items are brought in a clear plastic grocery-style bag.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

The AAA Automobile Club of New York provides free emergency roadside assistance to guests after home games. Visit the Guest Relations and Ticket Sales Booth or the Yankee Stadium Lobby.

4. Turner Field (Atlanta Braves)

Ticket savings at Turner Field include:

Tickets as low as $60 for singles and $50 for groups to an all-you-can-eat section that features unlimited smoked chicken barbecue sandwiches, chicken wings, all-beef franks, baked beans, peanuts, popcorn, chocolate chip cookies, Coca-Cola products, and draft beer
Braves Steal of the Week, weekly discounts to Wednesday games
Buck Belue $8 Buck Night for $8 Lower Level tickets
The Chevron Family Value Plan, which includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four Cokes, a Braves yearbook, parking pass, and a $10 Chevron gift card, starting at $69
Coca-Cola 2 for $30 Tuesdays, which includes two seats in the Club Pavilion for $30
2-for-1 Upper Box tickets to all fans who show valid military or student IDs or AAA cards

Fans can register for a free companion ticket on their birthday, valid on Sunday to Thursday games. The purchase of one ticket is required to redeem birthday coupon.

The All-Star Student Achievers Program rewards students in grades K-12 for academic excellence with free game tickets and a Chick-fil-A coupon.

One-year membership to the Braves Kids Club ($25) includes two Upper Box tickets, a Braves souvenir, welcome letter from Brian McCann, VIP access to Kids Run the Bases, free admission to the Braves Hall of Fame, two tickets to a Gwinnett Braves game (minor league team), Chick-fil-A sandwich coupon, discounts at the Braves Clubhouse Store at CNN Center, and a Kids Club membership ID card.

On specified game dates, fans are invited to bring their dogs to Bark in the Park ($25) when a portion of the Upper Deck is transformed into a doggy oasis, complete with pools to help keep pets cool and hydrated. Preregistration is required.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and other soft drinks (plastic or soft-sided only) of one-liter in size or less.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller with the plastic liner removed.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food.

Fans can receive a free Atlanta Braves fan pack by sending a postcard with their name and full address to:

Attn: Fan Pack
c/o Atlanta Braves
755 Hank Aaron
Drive Atlanta, GA 30315

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

5. Rogers Centre (Toronto Blue Jays)

Ticket savings at Rogers Centre include:

The Grand Slam Combo that includes a 200 Level Outfield ticket and all-you-can-eat Lesters Hot Dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, apples, chips, and soft drinks for $39 on select Fridays
Jr. Jays Saturdays, where kids age 14 and younger will receive special pricing on 500 and 200 Level Outfield tickets

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

6. Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks)

Ticket savings at Chase Field include:

The Pepsi Max Value Pack, which includes one bleacher ticket, a regular-size hot dog, one 24 oz. Pepsi, and a coupon for a free 20 oz. Pepsi Max
Kid’s Sundays featuring free admission for No Chew Crew members to Sunday home games
$5 tickets to select games on College Nights (a college ID is not required)
$7 off select seating for all afternoon weekday home games
All-you-can-eat seats in the Insight Diamond Level from $29 to $40, featuring unlimited Oscar Mayer all-beef hot dogs, chips, popcorn, Pepsi products, and Aquafina water

At every Friday night home game, the Miller Lite Diamond Club offers drink specials and music from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Admission into the Miller Lite Diamond Club is free with a ticket to that night's game.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 11” x 11” x 15” or smaller.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food as long as items are brought in a clear plastic grocery-style bag.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and single-serve juice boxes (plastic or soft-sided only). Empty plastic sports bottles also are permitted.

D-Backs Kid’s Club members, ages 3 to 15, can earn prizes for attending games.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

7. Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (Texas Rangers)

Ticket savings at Rangers Ballpark include:

Coca-Cola Family Packs, which include four tickets, four jumbo hot dogs, four Coca-Cola soft drinks, two kids’ zone wristbands, and one souvenir program, for $60 in Upper Reserved and $100 in the Lower Reserved sections
Half-priced tickets in the Upper Reserved, Upper Box, Lexus Club, Terrace, and Lower Reserved sections for most Wednesdays home games (online only)
$10 upper-level tickets to Friday home games with code VERIZON at texasrangers.com
$47 tickets to the All-You-Can-Eat Porch, which includes admission and unlimited hot dogs, nachos, soft drinks, peanuts, popcorn, and grilled chicken sandwiches

Children age 13 and younger are eligible for reduced-priced tickets, and children under 36 inches may be admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

The Dr. Pepper Jr. Range Club, for children age 13 and younger, includes ticket vouchers to select home games, invitations to Jr. Rangers events, and VIP “front of the line” access to every Sunday afternoon Run the Bases.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller with the plastic liner removed.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

8. Safeco Field (Seattle Mariners)

Ticket savings at Safeco Field include:

The Safeco Insurance Grand Slam Family Package, which includes a game ticket, hot dog, and Pepsi for $15 on the View Level, $30 on the Main Level, and $35 on the Wells Fargo Terrace Level when four or more tickets are purchased in advance ($2 added per ticket day of game)
$10 tickets in the View Level section on BECU Family Nights when purchased in advance ($2 added per ticket day of game)
$5 off on select View Level and $10 off select Main Level seats to Tuesday home games and on the 4^th of July for military personnel with a valid military ID (plus 20% regular-price merchandise at all Mariners Team stores)
$5 off on select View Level and $10 off select Main Level seats to select games for seniors age 60 and older (limit one per senior per game)

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

The Seattle Mariners Kids Club, for ages 14 and younger, includes a kids club bag, cap, and tee; up to a dozen $1 ticket coupons; lanyard and official credentials; birthday card; newsletter; kids club book, and access to members-only events, for $15 plus tax.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in single-serve beverage containers (milk, juice, etc.; plastic or soft-sided only). Empty plastic sports bottles also are permitted, but other outside beverages, including soft drinks and water/ice are not.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

9. Oriole Park at Camden Yards (Baltimore Orioles)

Ticket savings at Oriole Park include:

A free ticket to one non-prime game on your birthday
$45 advance tickets to the Left Field All-Inclusive Picnic Perch, which includes a Club Level ticket and unlimited hot dogs, peanuts, nachos, salad, and sodas
$9 Upper Reserve tickets to all Tuesday home games
$6 Left Field Upper Reserve tickets to students with a valid school ID to all Friday home games
$3 off all tickets for military personnel, veterans, and Department of Defense employees and their families

Active-duty military personnel can receive a military-themed Orioles cap and buy one, get one tickets to Sunday non-prime home games.

The first 20 fans at each home game who check in at the stadium using MLB.com will receive a free Orioles "I’m Checked In” T-shirt.

The Junior Orioles Dugout Club, for ages 14 and younger, includes a membership card, lanyard and ticket holder, subscription to Orioles Kids magazine, Orioles hat, tickets to 10 pre-selected games, and a drawstring backpack for $20. Friends and family members of Dugout Club members can purchase tickets for as low as $6 on Dugout Club days.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller. Purses, diaper bags, backpacks, and camera bags also are permitted.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food.

Non-alcoholic beverages in plastic containers are permitted. Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and single-serve juice boxes (plastic or soft-sided only). Empty plastic sports bottles also are permitted.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

10. Angel Stadium of Anaheim (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim)

Ticket savings at Angel Stadium include:

A Friends & Family Fun Pack, which comes with four tickets, four hot dogs, and four small soft drinks for $56
All-inclusive Bases Loaded seats that include hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn, dessert cups, and soft drinks for $30 to $35
50% off select seating on designated days to AAA members
50% Upper View, View All-Star, View MVP, and Right Field Pavilion seating to select games for seniors age 55 and older and uniformed military personnel

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free.

The Junior Angels Kids Club includes two ticket vouchers, Albert Pujols water bottle, exclusive Jr. Angels hat, Angels Kooky Pen, official membership passport, and the chance to be a honorary bat kid at an Angels home game, for $18.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller. Purses, diaper bags, backpacks, and camera bags also are permitted.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles (plastic only) of one-liter in size or less. Other outside beverages, including soda, sports drinks, and frozen water bottles, are not permitted.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

11. Busch Stadium (St. Louis Cardinals)

Ticket savings at Busch Stadium include:

Dynamic Pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on market value to as low as $5
Hunter Family Sundays, where fans in the Right Field Terrace and RF/LF Pavilion will receive a free Hunter hot dog and Coca-Cola on most Sundays
The Six Flags Double Play Combo featuring a Cardinals ticket and a Six Flags ticket for $55
A $10 discount on most Monday to Thursday games for AAA members
And KMOX 1120 First Pitch Tickets that allow fans to purchase two tickets for $5.60 each at 9 a.m. on the day of each home game

The Cardinals Crew Kids Club, for ages 15 and younger, includes two tickets to a select game, a Matt Holliday #7 bookbag, braided necklace, Cardinals picture frame, lanyard and pin, various discounts, and a membership card, for $25.

Non-alcoholic beverages, including water and soda in open cups or in clear plastic bottles no larger than two liters, are allowed.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food.

Fans are permitted to bring bags or backpacks 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

12. Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia Phillies)

Ticket savings at Citizens Bank Park include various theme nights when tickets regularly priced $30 and less are $2 off, and groups of 25 or more receive a $2 discount per tickets on most Monday to Friday games.

The Junior Phillies Club, for ages 14 and under, includes a Junior Phillies Club bag, full-color poster of Hunter Pence, exclusive Hunter Pence magnets, various discounts, and a membership card, for $13.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Each guest is permitted to bring one bag 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in single-serve beverage containers (milk, juice, etc.; plastic or soft-sided only).

13. Progressive Field (Cleveland Indians)

Ticket savings at Progressive Field include perfect 10 Voucher Packs, which include 10 tickets to any of the Indians' 81 home games. Fans can use the vouchers to attend 10 games individually, five games with a friend, or 10 games with a group. Prices start at $99 for bleacher/upper deck seats.

The High Achievers Kids Club, for children in grades K to 8, rewards those who do well in school with Indians tickets, prizes, and experiences. Membership is free.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

14. PETCO Park (San Diego Padres)

Ticket savings at PETCO Park include:

College Nights, which feature $9 advance and $10 day-of-game tickets to Thursday home games
The Military Season Pass, which entitles junior enlisted military personnel (pay grades E1-E3) to one Upper Reserved seat for up to 80 home games for $99

The Jr. Padres, for ages 14 and younger, is free.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles 20 oz. or less and single-serve beverage containers (milk, juice, etc.; plastic or soft-sided only).

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food for individual consumption. All food items should be wrapped, bagged, or put in a container. Fruits must be sliced or sectioned.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

15. Great American Ball Park (Cincinnati Reds)

Ticket savings at the Great American Ball Park include an all-you-can-eat section, which features unlimited hot dogs, popcorn, peanuts, and soda, starting at $32, and Tickets Plus+, which includes a ticket concession value of $10 or $20 redeemable throughout the ballpark for food, beverages, and merchandise.

The Reds Heads Kids Club, for ages 14 and younger, includes four ticket vouchers, Reds Heads logo cap and team replica road jersey, Reds-style baseball cap backpack, dog tag, Reds Heads lens logo sunglasses, newsletters, a ticket to the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, one-day admission to the Cincinnati Zoo, kids meal at Bob Evans Restaurant, a ticket to the “A Day in Pompeii” exhibit at the Cincinnati Museum Center, for $25.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles and soft drinks.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

16. Citi Field (New York Mets)

Ticket specials for Citi Field include:

50% off select seating areas for seniors for all Monday to Thursday matinee games, available for purchase starting at 9 a.m. on game day
The McFadden’s VIP package for select games, which includes one-hour open bar and appetizer buffet before the game, a ticket to the game, and one drink after the 7^th inning, for $35 to $45
Power Packs for families of four for $22 each, which include four game tickets in the Left Field Landing and four hot dogs, hamburgers, or veggie burgers, each with fries and a drink
T-shirt Tuesdays, which feature a ticket in the Left Field Landing to select games and a limited-edition T-shirt for $19
$10 tickets for students with a valid high school of college ID
A complimentary ticket to active military personnel with active military ID, available for pickup in the Ticket Office Lobby in the Jackie Robinson Rotunda on game day

The Mets Fan Club for Kids, for young fans, includes a voucher for two tickets to a Mets home game, an ID card, lanyard, cap, commemorative Fathead poster, three issues of the Kids Club newsletter, a birthday card from the Mets, folder, membership certificate, and more, for $25.

Children 32” or shorter are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Bike racks are provided to ticket holders keen to reduce their carbon footprints.

A concert is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

17. AT&T Park (San Francisco Giants)

Ticket savings at AT&T Park include:

Dynamic Deals, where prices will fluctuate based on market value to as low as $8
The Value 6Pack, which includes one ticket to six select games for $39

Fans are permitted to bring paper and plastic grocery bags, purses, fanny packs, backpacks, lunch bags, diaper bags (backpack-style), soft-sided containers, handbags and briefcases into the ballpark as long as they do not exceed 16" x 16" x 8" in size.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed plastic bottles and soft-sided juice containers. Unsealed plastic bottles will be inspected.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Free Wi-Fi is provided to fans.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

18. Miller Park (Milwaukee Brewers)

Ticket savings for Miller Park include:

50% off all seats (except Bernie’s Terrace and $1 Uecker Seats) to weekday afternoon home games for kids age 14 and younger and seniors age 60 and older
$20 for the Brew Crew & The Zoo package, which includes one Terrace Reserved ticket to a select game, one ticket to the Milwaukee County Zoo, and a Brew Crew & the Zoo T-shirt
Brewers $13 Fair Fridays, which includes one Terrace Reserved ticket to any Friday game and one general admission ticket to the Wisconsin State Fair
Corey’s Corner tickets plus a limited-edition Corey Hart T-shirt for $35, to benefit the American Heart Association
The Harley-Davidson Crew H-D Ticket Package, which includes a ticket to select games, one adult admission to the Harley-Davidson Museum, and an H-D Museum glass mug
Miller High Life Mondays, featuring $8 Terrace Reserved seats
50% off Terrace Reserved and Loge Bleacher seats for college and high school students with a valid ID to Friday home games, courtesy of Time Warner Cable
$1 Uecker Seats, available on game day only.

The Brewers Kids’ Club, for age 14 and younger, includes an ID card with lanyard, cap, drawstring bag and coin pouch, poster and beads, six Terrace Reserved ticket vouchers, and other exclusive opportunities, for $25.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed plastic bottles containing soda, water, or juice.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in appropriate containers.

Bike racks are provided to ticket holders keen to reduce their carbon footprints.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

19. Nationals Park (Washington Nationals)

Ticket savings at Nationals Park include:

Harris Teeter Family Fun Packs, which include a game ticket, hot dog, Coca-Cola/Dasani beverage, and chips, starting at $14 each (two ticket minimum)
Miller Lite Party Night (every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday), which includes a ticket to a select section and a free Coca-Cola product, Dasani water, or beer, starting at $20
A free birthday ticket
The Beltway Burger Pack, which includes a ticket to a select section, burger, fries, and a drink, starting at $20 (two ticket minimum)
50% off tickets $10 or more for college students with a valid college ID (limit one ticket per ID)
$3 off tickets $10 or more for military personnel, seniors, and government employees
$5 off tickets $24 or more to every Tuesday home game by presenting a Harris Teeter VIC card (four ticket max)
$5 off tickets $24 or more on Washington Post Wednesdays by presenting the front page of that day’s Washington Post

The Jr. Nationals Kids Club, for ages 12 and younger, includes a lunch tote, braided necklace, mini-Screech bobblehead, membership card with lanyard, a coupon book with buy-one-get-one-free ticket vouchers and free meal offers, and a Jr. Nationals passport for $15.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed water bottles of one-liter in size or less, kids’ juice boxes, insulin containers, baby food, and empty Nalgene water bottles. Only one bottle per person is permitted.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in single-serving bags within soft-sided containers or coolers.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Kids, age 14 and younger, can ride the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel for free on Sundays.

A free bike valet is located in Garage C at the corner of First and N streets, SE. Access to the valet is on N Street, just left of the entrance. The valet will accept bikes 2.5 hours before game time and will close one hour after the game ends.

The day after the Nationals win and score at least five runs, fans can use promo code NATS50 for 50% OFF their entire order at PapaJohns.com.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

20. Comerica Park (Detroit Tigers)

Ticket savings are offered at Comercia Park on various event nights hosted sporadically throughout the season.

Membership to the Tigers Kids Club includes a Justin Verlander drawstring backpack, two issues of PAWSprint, a kids’ club passport with lanyard, birthday card, and other exclusive offers.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed bottles of unflavored water and juice boxes.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in single-serving bags.

Children age 3 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after most Friday and Saturday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

21. Wrigley Field (Chicago Cubs)

Ticket savings at Wrigley Field include dynamic pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on market value.

The Cubs Kids Club membership includes a lanyard, chest protector backpack, baseball cap, school supplies package, stickers, Wrigley Field Tour ticket, child ticket to Legoland Discovery Center Chicago, and front-of-the-line privileges for Kids-Run-the-Bases, for $29.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed bottles of water.

Fans are permitted to bring food and drink items in acceptable containers.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A free bike valet is located on the southeast corner of Clark and Waveland.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

22. Minute Maid Park (Houston Astros)

Ticket savings at Minute Maid Park include:

An all-you-can-eat option that includes unlimited hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, soda, and water for $30
Price Matters, which includes a View Deck II ticket, a hot dog, a bag of H-E-B chips, and one soda for $10
The Coca-Cola Value Zone, which includes a Mezzanine ticket, Astros cap, a hot dog, and 20 oz. Coke product for $20, available every Friday to Sunday home game
$30 for a Guys Night Out package, which includes a Field Box II ticket, sausage dog, one draft beer or small soda, and an Astros cap
Dynamic pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on market value

The Astro Buddies Kids Club (MVP membership), for age 14 and younger, includes four Astros tickets, discount ticket offers, and other perks, for $20. Rookie membership is free.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

23. U.S. Cellular Field (Chicago White Sox)

Ticket savings at U.S. Cellular Field include:

Dynamic pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on market value
Kids Days, when tickets for kids age 13 and younger are $1 each when a full-price adult ticket is purchased for select games
One free ticket to active members of the military, based on availability, at the U.S. Cellular Field Box Office on game day with a valid military ID

The White Sox Kids Club (All-Star membership), for age 13 and younger, includes four White Sox tickets, a welcome postcard from a White Sox player, T-shirt, cap, White Sox mini-bobblehead, foam finger, and more, for $35. Slugger membership is free.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Each fan may bring in one sealed bottle of water, one liter in size or less.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in small, see-through plastic bags.

Children 36” and under are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

24. Target Field (Minnesota Twins)

Ticket savings at Target Field include demand-based pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on demand.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in sealed bottled water 32 oz. or less and soft-sided juice or milk containers. Empty, plastic sport-type water bottles are also permitted.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in soft-sided containers that will fit under a seat.

Children 30” and under are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

25. PNC Park (Pittsburgh Pirates)

Ticket savings at PNC Park include:

50% to 60% off Grandstand, Bleacher Reserved, and Upper Grandstand seats for kids age 14 and younger
$38 for all-you-can-eat seats in the Outfield Reserved section, which include unlimited burgers, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, salads, ice cream, and soda for $38
Pepsi Max Packs, which include a game ticket, hot dog, pretzel, and a Pepsi, for $24 on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons
$10 off Sunday home game tickets with a Giant Eagle Advantage Card
Up to $10 off each ticket when you purchase with a PNC Bank Check Card
$25 for one human and one dog ticket on Pup Nights

The Bucaroos Kids Club (Gold membership) includes four ticket vouchers, six buy one, get one free ticket vouchers, a lunch cooler, winter gloves, and exclusive experience opportunities, for $15. Sliver membership is free.

All fans receive a free Pirates T-shirt at every Friday home game.

Children 32” and under are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after some Saturday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

26. Kauffman Stadium (Kansas City Royals)

Ticket savings at Kauffman Stadium include:

All-you-can-eat seats in the Loge Level, which include unlimited hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, pretzels, and Pepsi products for $40
Family FunDay Sunday 4-Packs, which include four tickets in the Hy-Vee Infield, $10 in concession credit on each ticket, and an All Day Play Pass for unlimited activities in the Outfield Experience, available every Sunday home game for $80
$10 Fountain Seats on Value Games
Frenchy Quarter Thursdays, which feature an Outfield Box seat, a “The Frenchy Quarter” T-shirt, and blue Mardi Gras beads, available every Thursday home game for $21
50% off to Jackson County residents to select home games
Play Packs, which include two Field Plaza tickets with $5 in concession credit and two Play Passes for unlimited games in the Outfield Experience for $25
$7 Hy-Vee Level tickets to all Monday home games
Half-priced tickets in the Loge Box, Field Plaza, Outfield Box, Hy-Vee Box, Hy-Vee Infield and Hy-Vee Outfield, to all Sunday to Thursday home games for seniors age 65 and older
$7 Outfield Box and Hy-Vee Infield tickets to all Wednesday home games for high school and college students with a valid ID
Up to four half-priced tickets for active-duty and retired military with a valid military ID.
$7 Hy-Vee Infield tickets to every Wednesday home game for age 14 and younger

The Sluggerrr’s Blue Crew Youth Fan Club membership, for age 14 and younger, includes a Royals replica batting practice jersey, jersey-style backpack with MP3 player pocket, special-edition reusable water bottle, VIP access to the Sprint Fun Run, two game ticket vouchers, vouchers to the Outfield Experience; child’s admission for a ballpark tour, and other special offers, for $20.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Each fan may bring in one sealed bottled water, 20 oz. or less.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food in soft-sided containers.

Children 32” and under are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

A fireworks show is hosted after every Friday home game, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

27. Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox)

At Fenway Park, fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted free.

28. Marlins Park (Miami Marlins)

Ticket savings at Marlins Park include:

Special offer every Wednesday
$10 Gameday Specials; Monday “All You Can Eat” tickets to select games, which include unlimited hot dogs, sodas, water, nachos, peanuts, and popcorn
Tuesday “Family Four Pack” tickets, which include tickets, hot dogs, chips, and sodas for four, starting at $54
50% off tickets to Wednesday home game with a fill-up of eight gallons or more of Chevron gasoline
$5 one ticket with a voucher from participating Subway restaurants
Free tickets to military employees, active duty, Reserve, National Guard, and their dependents, on Military Mondays, sponsored by Outback Steakhouse

The Billy’s Bunch Kids Club (free for residents of Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Collier, and Monroe counties, ages 12 and younger) includes a welcome letter from Billy the Marlin, an official Billy’s Bunch membership card, Heath Bell player poster, Miami Marlins “black eye,” Billy’s Bunch messenger bag, Billy’s Bunch Family Sunday Passport, and a free Duffy’s kid’s meal coupon.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed bottled water 20 oz. or less and soft-sided juice or milk containers.

Each fan is permitted to bring in one single-serving food item in a clear plastic bag. Fruit must be sliced.

Children age 3 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

Free concerts are hosted after some Friday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

29. Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum (Oakland Athletics)

Ticket savings at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum include:

$2 tickets in the Plaza Outfield and Plaza Reserved sections to every Wednesday home game
50% off Plaza Level tickets to every Thursday home game
XFINITY Friday Family Packs, which include Plaza Level tickets, hot dogs, medium drinks, and bags of peanuts for four, for $50
Dynamic pricing, where prices will fluctuate based on market value

The Oakland A’s Kids Club (All-Star membership), for age 14 and younger, includes an A’s Kids Club sweatshirt-style drawstring bag; water bottle, lanyard, coupon booklet with free and discounted offers on A’s tickets and merchandise, and more, for $20. Rookie membership is free.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Children age 2 and younger are admitted for free but must occupy a ticket holder’s lap.

All fans park for free at most Tuesday games.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

30. Tropicana Field (Tampa Bay Rays)

Ticket savings at Tropicana Field include Tampa Bay Times Family Fun Days, which feature special tickets offers that include a voucher for a hot dog, snack, and Pepsi product, available every Sunday home game.

The Rays Rookies membership, for age 14 and younger, includes official Rays Rookies jersey, drawstring backpack, membership card, coupons for merchandise and concession items, ticket vouchers to two Rays home games, and other discounts, for $25.

Fans are permitted to bring in soft-sided bags or containers 16” x 16” x 8” or smaller.

Fans may bring in factory-sealed bottled water one liter or less and soft-sided juice or milk containers.

Fans are permitted to bring in outside food for individual consumption.

Children younger than age 2 are admitted for free.

Free concerts are hosted after some Saturday home games, weather permitting.

Promotional items are given away regularly. Check the giveaway schedule here.

Are you privy to deals and discounts at your favorite MLB stadium that are not on this list? Let me know in the comments below.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: Do You Go to Sporting Events?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:36:08 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Kelly, Jennifer, and Finance Advice for Young Professionals for winning this week's contest!

Most people are a fan of at least one sport or team. Whether it's your college football team or your favorite NBA team, chances are you watch your team play from time to time. You may even splurge and attend sporting events every once in awhile! However, the cost of attending games may deter you from buying tickets.

Do you go to sporting events? If so, how do you save on tickets? Do you use eBay? Craigslist? Ticketmaster? Or do you opt to stay in to watch the big game?

Tell us if you go to sporting events and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — one for random comments, one for random Facebook "Likes", and another one for random tweets.

Mandatory Entry:

Post your answer in the comments below

For extra entries (1 per action):

Go to our Facebook page, "Like" us, and leave a comment on this article telling us you did, or
Tweet your answer. You have to be a follower of our @wisebread account. Include both "@wisebread" and "#WBAsk" in your tweet so we'll see it and count it. Leave a link to your tweet (click the timestamp for the individual URL) in a separate comment.

If you're inspired to write a whole blog post OR you have a photo on flickr to share, please link to it in the comments or tweet it.

Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, May 14th at 11:59 pm Pacific. Winners will be announced after May 14th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
You can enter all three drawings — once by leaving a comment, once by liking our Facebook update, and once by tweeting.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook.
You must be 18 and US resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us if you go to sporting events and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: