Worst US College Football Stadiums

Advertisements

The college experience is all about studying, making new friends and heading to the stadium on fall Saturdays to cheer on the football team.
Some college teams play in iconic shrines. Think Michigan Stadium, the Ohio State "Horseshoe" and Notre Dame Stadium. But others have home fields that probably remind fans of high school, or worse.

Advertisements


We're focusing on those. We count down to our pick for the very worst stadium at college football's top level — the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, or FBS — based on attendance, online comments and more.

"

40. University of California-Los Angeles: Rose Bowl Stadium


The Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena, California
Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons



Pasadena, California

One of the more picturesque stadiums in the country, the Rose Bowl is a somewhat creaky venue that's in need of significant repairs.

Home to the UCLA Bruins, the Rose Bowl opened in 1922 and is a National Historic Landmark.

But in the present day, it's known for its horrible parking, cramped concourses and seats, and aging facilities.

As one Yelp reviewer says, “If you must go [to the Rose Bowl], leave your house at least five to six hours before the concert or game begins. Prepare to be irritated at the sheer incompetence of a city and venue that does as little as possible, and generally doesn't give a rat's patooty once they've got your money."

"

39. University of Maryland: Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium


Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium, home to the Maryland Terrapins since 1950
University of Maryland / Wikimedia Commons


College Park, Maryland

The University of Maryland must decide to either upgrade Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium — or tear it down.

The stadium is in dire need of repair and has been limping along on life support for something like two decades.

"The field itself needed work as a number of players slipped and fell on the rubber crumb field-turf," says one fan, in a review on Google. "This stadium needs a full renovation — or just better facility management."

Couple the lackluster stadium with a program that has struggled in recent years (the Terps had a 5-and-7 overall record in 2018), and you can understand why some fans have been choosing to avoid this place.

"

38. Marshall University: Joan C. Edwards Stadium


Panoramic taken after Marshall's 61-13 victory over Southern Mississippi on November 2, 2013.
Davebanner12 / Wikimedia Commons



Huntington, West Virginia

Edwards Stadium has a deserving spot on this list due to the overall condition of the stadium, and to the fans who call it home. They're not known for being hospitable toward visiting fans.

"You need to be a tough hombre wearing visiting gear coming into Edwards Stadium on fall Saturdays, as if you're not with the Thundering Herd, chances are you are going to hear about it and then some," says Bleacher Report.

Edwards is a nearly 30-year-old old cookie-cutter stadium that holds around 39,000 people. It has mediocre facilities and is truly nothing special.

But it is one of only two NCAA Division I football stadiums named after women. Joan Edwards and her husband were major benefactors to Marshall; the stadium's playing surface honors James F. Edwards.

"

37. Kent State University: Dix Stadium


West stands of Dix Stadium on the campus of Kent State University in Kent, Ohio
JonRidinger / Wikimedia Commons



Kent, Ohio

The home of the Kent State Golden Flashes, Dix Stadium takes the conservationist slogan "reduce, reuse, recycle" to heart.

It was built in the late 1960s incorporating parts of the university's old Memorial Stadium, including thousands of the seats.

Dix features a single elevated grandstand on one side, with high-school-esque metal bleachers that replaced wooden bleachers on the east and north sides in the 2000s.

This stadium is not unique, and nor does Kent State deliver a brand of football that encourages large crowds. "The stadium is a very serviceable 1970s era stadium that undergoes constant revision," writes one Google reviewer.

"

36. Harvard University: Harvard Stadium


BOSTON - MAY. 30, 2018: Harvard Stadium was built in 1903 in Allston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. It is the home of Harvard Crimson football team.
Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock



Boston

A stadium that looks like something out of Roman times, Harvard Stadium opened in 1903 to much fanfare, but today it seems like too much of a relic.

Here's a prime example: Fans still watch the games sitting on concrete bleachers.

Also, the concession choices are humdrum and quite pricey, and the Crimson are just a shadow of the team that dominated at the U-shaped stadium decades ago.

“TERRIBLE" is how one Yelper describes Harvard Stadium. "This stadium is falling around itself, I'm sure Harvard realizes that 40,000 squeezed in there for the Yale game. I'm surprised it didn't burst into tears and just give up and collapse.”

"

35. Temple University: Lincoln Financial Field


PHILADELPHIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Fordham runs a play near the goal line during the football game against Temple September 14, 2013 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Aspen Photo / Shutterstock



Philadelphia

Although the Linc is a great facility, Temple struggles to attract the kind of fan base that would make this stadium feel like a real home.

The Philadelphia Eagles play here, too, and the Owls just rent out the place on their game days. As a result, Lincoln Financial Field doesn't have that classic college football stadium feel.

"What's not to love?" asks Yelp reviewer Michael N. "Watching Temple University football in an NFL stadium with a seating capacity of 70,000. Stretch out, occupy an entire section and grab some rays."

Temple has had a struggling program that has failed to draw fans, but the hope is that recent coaching changes can turn around this once-proud program to become relevant once again.

"

34. University of Arkansas: War Memorial Stadium


Samford Bulldogs at Arkansas Razorbacks (War Memorial Stadium, Little Rock, AR)
Brandonrush / Wikimedia Commons



Little Rock, Arkansas

The Razorbacks play most of their home games at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas, but they still return occasionally to this more than 70-year-old venue in Little Rock.

Which is horrid, to put it bluntly. War Memorial is in need of tender loving care — and significant upgrades. Certainly more than a new paint job.

Fans say they enjoy that the place has a lot of history, but not that it's small and cramped. "Needs to be redone — it's just a big high school stadium," says one Google reviewer.

The Razorbacks have a deal to continue playing a few games each season at this stadium through 2024.

"

33. Yale University: Yale Bowl


Final score of Yale/Cornell game, September 28, 2019.
Kenneth Zirkel / Wikimedia Commons



New Haven, Connecticut

Yale has a unique stadium that looks as thought it was built out of a dirt hill. But the football program doesn't have much of a fan base, so the Yale Bowl doesn't offer much game day atmosphere, except during the Harvard-Yale game.

The stadium opened in 1914, and the architect was a member of the class of 1871. It doesn't have locker rooms and forces both the Bulldogs and their opponents to change 200 yards offsite. (It originally didn't have restrooms either. They came along in 1930.)

The Yale Bowl offers limited concessions and food options — for the 50 or so students who show up for regular-season games.

"This place is a dump, but still worth a visit," says one Google reviewer.

"

32. San Diego State University: SDCCU Stadium


San Diego, California, USA – July 29, 2017: Aerial panoramic view of the SDCCU Stadium (San Diego State Aztecs football team stadium)
Conchi Martinez / Shutterstock



San Diego

Once home to the NFL’s San Diego Chargers, SDCCU — short for the San Diego County Credit Union, which bought the naming rights — can hold up to 70,000 fans, but San Diego State struggles to fill even half the seats.

The stadium not only lacks fan atmosphere, but it's also mediocre in terms of concessions and amenities.

It opened in 1967 and for many years was called Jack Murphy Stadium, and then Qualcomm Stadium. Some fans just call it "tired."

As one Yelp reviewer noted, “Worst venue I've ever been to. Dated, run-down. Limited options at concessions — it's laughable. RadioShack from 1982 provided the sound system and 'jumbo'-tron."

"

31. University of North Texas: Apogee Stadium


during a Division I football game between the Incarnate Word Cardinals and University of North Texas Mean Green on September 8, 2018,   at Apogee Stadium, Denton, Texas.
Mark Fann / Shutterstock



Denton, Texas

Maybe it's fitting for the home of the Mean Green: Apogee Stadium is one of the only LEED-certified stadiums in the country.

It's relatively new — opened in 2011 — but North Texas has struggled to find its footing in the venue.

The Mean Green lose more than half their home games, though their overall season records have improved since 2015, when they went a dismal 1 and 11.

But the team barely draws 20,000 per game, and parking is the pits. "If you need to park on game day," advises one Yelper, "go to the eastern part of the campus and walk over. It will save you time, anger, and the fear of getting towed.”

"

30. University of Colorado: Folsom Field


Boulder, Colorado / USA - August 18th 2018: Aerial side view of CU Stadium Folsom field
Leeweh / Shutterstock



Boulder, Colorado

Folsom is an average stadium with no major problems but nothing memorable in the looks department. It's just "meh," though the views of the surrounding mountains are beautiful.

The horseshoe-shaped venue opened way back in 1924, and some say the place has failed to keep up.

"The bathroom situation is terrible," says Yelper Mike M. "You either had to cross 40 beer lines to get to the one men's room on this side of the stadium or wait in a 30-minute line for four outhouses. The beer lines were 45 minutes. All of them."

Another negative is Colorado fans' reputation for rudeness. "Some of the fans are horrible to be around, drunk and obnoxious," says a Google reviewer named Kevin. "Deliberately knocked pizza and drinks out of a woman's hands in front of us. Completely classless!"

"

29. Indiana University: Memorial Stadium


May 22, 2019 - Bloomington, Indiana, USA: Aerial Views of Memorial Stadium, also known as The Rock, is a stadium in Bloomington, Indiana.
Action Sports Photography / Shutterstock



Bloomington, Indiana

Memorial Stadium looks fresh thanks to a renovation that was completed in time for the 2018 season. So why does it make this list?

Because the Hoosiers haven't had a winning season in years, which has made for a poor game day experience. The product on the field has been lackluster, meaning fans have been more eager to hang out and drink than watch the games.

"IU football isn't anything to write home about, but the tailgaters (half of which don't make it to the game) will have you thinking otherwise!" writes Yelp reviewer Leila V. "Overall, not an exciting venue.'

Indiana may turn things around in 2019, and that could inject some needed fan atmosphere into this stadium.

"

28. University of Dayton: Welcome Stadium


Dayton, Ohio's Welcome public stadium
Greenstrat / Wikimedia Commons



The home of the Dayton Flyers has a high-school feel — because Welcome Stadium was built in 1949 for Dayton, Ohio's high school football teams, who still play here today.

A press box was added when the stadium underwent a $400,000 upgrade in 2008, but Welcome still has limited concessions and two cookie-cutter grandstands with metal bleachers.

Fans say the stadium — which has a capacity of just 11,000 — is dated and in need of work. "It is very dirty. Overly rusty. And gum everywhere," complains one Google reviewer.

But at least parking is never an issue for Flyers fans, because Welcome Stadium is surrounded by thousands of parking spots.

"

27. Jacksonville University: D.B. Milne Field


The Jacksonville Dolphins football team in action at D. B. Milne Field on the campus of Jacksonville University in Jacksonville.
richmond96 / Wikimedia Commons



Jacksonville, Florida

You'd think that a school in Jacksonville — Florida's largest city by both population and land area — would have a proper grandstand, but it took until 2014 to add any formal seating here.

Before the renovation, D.B. Milne offered fans only concrete steps on a short hill. The press box was rather limited, and the scoreboard looked old-school.

But even after the improvements, calling this a college football "stadium" is a bit of a stretch.

"Most high school stadiums in Florida are bigger, and there is no character," writes one Google reviewer. "It doesn't help that the largest crowds for games at the one-sided stands are less than half full."

"

26. Simon Fraser University: Terry Fox Field


Simon Fraser University - Central Washington University GNAC NCAA football at Terry Fox Field, Burnaby B.C. October 1 2016. Photo: Ron Hole
Simon Fraser University / Flickr



Burnaby, British Columbia (Canada)

Home to the Simon Fraser University Clan, as the football team is called, Terry Fox Field used to leave much to the imagination.

The home field of the only NCAA school located outside the U.S. didn't have a permanent grandstand until just recently. Fans previously had to sit on a steep hill overlooking the playing surface.

Anyone planning to attend a game is still advised to bring a blanket and a jacket, because the stadium is located on the top of a mountain and can be chilly and rainy.

The Clan generally struggle with attendance, but the annual Shrum Bowl with Simon Fraser's archrival, the University of British Columbia, does draw fans in the thousands.

"

25. University of New Mexico: Dreamstyle Stadium


Dreamstyle Stadium at the University of New Mexico.
Riverrat303 / Wikimedia Commons



Albuquerque, New Mexico

Home of the Lobos, Dreamstyle Stadium has not seen many wins. The New Mexico program hasn't won a conference title in over four decades, which doesn't make for a great game day atmosphere.

It's an old stadium, opened in 1960, and it gives new meaning to the term "nosebleed seats" because it's situated about a mile above sea level.

The stadium's amenities are just OK, but the views from the top rows during a New Mexico sunset are worth the price of admission.

"It has bench seats, so you might want to bring a cushion. The team you watch there isn't the best either. But it is good for Saturday entertainment," writes one reviewer on Google.

"

24. Washington State University: Martin Stadium


It isn't all for the press. Must be some sky boxes which are an economic reality in modern sports.
Robert Ashworth / Wikimedia Commons



Pullman, Washington

The Cougars have had winning seasons the last few years (they went 11 and two in 2018), but their home hasn't been much for fans to cheer about.

The smallest stadium in the Pac 12 conference (with a capacity under 33,000) has been looking sadly dated, even after recent construction.

As one reviewer writes on TripAdvisor, "The seating bowl is completely antiquated. Most of the seats are metal. Metal, in cold-weather stadiums? Sounds like a terrible idea."

However, with more renovations planned, a nationally ranked team and ESPN's College GameDay having recently made the trip to Pullman, Martin Stadium could find itself off this list in no time.

"

23. Duke University: Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium


July 15, 2018 - Durham, North Carolina, USA: Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium is a 40,004-seat stadium on the campus of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina
Action Sports Photography / Shutterstock



Durham, North Carolina

Though recent renovations to the Blue Devils' nearly 90-year-old stadium added five stories of luxury suites and a mammoth LED videoboard, Brooks Field is just average in many ways.

As one Yelp user remarks, "It looks and feels like an oversized high school stadium. I mean, it seemed nice and all, but it didn't feel like college football."

The more than 40,000-seat stadium is normally only about half full, and the amenities are nothing special.

The team that plays on it typically runs a .500 year, though in the 2018 season Duke had an 8 and 5 overall record and trounced Temple by a score of 56 to 27 in the Independence Bowl.

"

22. University at Buffalo: UB Stadium


Aerial image of the college football stadium in Buffalo, NY.
Davidhar / Wikimedia Commons



Buffalo, New York

UB Stadium can hold more than 30,000 fans, but the Bulls have drawn fewer than half that number for some games. The team's 25-year-old field may have something to do with the lackluster attendance.

"People rave about how wonderful this stadium is, and honestly it's a load of Bulls," cracks one Yelper, who calls the venue "uncomfortable" and "pretty average."

Another complains about the running track that circles the field. "The track pushes the stands back pretty far, and with all the people the teams bring along to stand on the sidelines you can't see much."

The Bulls say in their marketing that their goal is to provide a more family-friendly football experience at UB Stadium.

"

21. Northwestern University: Ryan Field


Ryan Field (Dyche Stadium)  Northwestern Wildcats vs. Western Michigan Broncos.  Ryan Field.  Evanston, Illinois, USA.  September 3, 2016.
John W. Iwanski / Flickr



Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern brings some of the best teams in the nation to historic Ryan Field (previously known as Dyche Stadium), and yet the stands are often half-empty.

Home to the decorated Northwestern Wildcats, the stadium is capable of holding more than 40,000 people, but it hasn't been renovated since 1996.

The stadium has some of the best sightlines in the Big Ten, but some fans say Ryan — which opened in 1926 — is old, outdated and is in need of better amenities, including a new Jumbotron.

“Concessions? Oh, they have anything you want to eat — as long as it’s a hot dog," writes one TripAdvisor reviewer.

"

20. University of Kansas: David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium


David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, aerial view, 08-31-2013
Ichabod / Wikimedia Commons



Lawrence, Kansas

Kansas Memorial is one of the oldest stadiums in college football; it was built in 1920 and dedicated to students who were killed in World War I. It has history and gorgeous architecture, but the place needs some attention, fans say.

Writes one, in a Google review: "Very old stadium that badly needs an upgrade. The bathrooms were not even air-conditioned. Uncomfortable bench seating."

Others say the game day atmosphere is lacking and that the concession stands are inconvenient to get to.

It doesn't help that the Jayhawks have gone from a powerful annual bowl team to a powderpuff squad in the tough Big 12.

"

19. University of Nevada Las Vegas: Sam Boyd Stadium


U.S. Air Force Academy Falcons football players practice before their game against the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Rebels Sept. 22, 2012, at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas.
U.S. Department of Defense Current Photos / Wikimedia Commons



Las Vegas

The home of the UNLV Rebels has been discussed as a possible temporary home for the NFL's Raiders, who are leaving Oakland for Las Vegas. But this stadium, built in 1971, is short on parking, food vendors and other amenities.

"The lines [for] food were 20-40 minutes, and for a cold $6 hot dog," complains one TripAdvisor reviewer. "I would never attend another event at this stadium unless I could arrive by helicopter and eat before I arrived."

The seats are uncomfortable metal benches, other reviewers noted.

And, given UNLV's losing record year over year, game days at Sam Boyd Stadium can feel a little deflated. The Rebels went 4 and 8 in the 2018 season.

"

18. University of Northern Illinois: Huskie Stadium


Huskie Stadium, 2007
Greenstrat / Wikimedia Commons



DeKalb, Illinois

The Huskies are a solid team in the MAC, but they have a lackluster stadium to play in. Even fans who have nice things to say about their game experience say the venue needs a refresh.

"Has that old stadium feel. Concessions don't take cards and the ATM was out of money," says one Google reviewer — who still adds, "Overall had a good time."

Other fans remark that the concession stands quickly run out of food, and that the limited restroom facilities tend to have long wait times.

Huskie Stadium is due for some upgrades. It was built in 1965 and has a capacity of around 25,000.

"

17. University of Tulsa: Skelly Field at H.A. Chapman Stadium


Tulsa Golden Hurricanes vs. UCF
Michael / Flickr



Tulsa, Oklahoma

Admiring fans describe this stadium with phrases such as "great little football field" — which is telling.

One fan writing a Google review even remarks that, "The stadium isn't too big so all the seats have good views of the game."

Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium has seating for 30,000, dates back to 1930 and lacks modern amenities. And while visitors agree that size doesn't matter, one thing they complain about is an unfortunate parking situation.

Plus, game day spirit has been strained by a couple of bad seasons. The Golden Hurricane won only three games during the 2018 season. "Nice stadium. Would be a 5 star experience if they could win," writes a Google reviewer.

"

16. University of Massachusetts: Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium


Warren McGuirk Alumni Stadium at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
MHarrison / Wikimedia Commons



Hadley, Massachusetts

McGuirk Alumni Stadium, built in 1964, is relatively puny — holding only 17,000 fans. You wouldn't be able to tell that the Minutemen are a Division I team, since the place is often a little empty. UMass struggles on and off the field.

It's an OK place to watch a game, but it can be downright miserable in any weather, particularly on cold autumn nights in central Massachusetts.

To make matters worse, the limited bathroom situation forces some fans to use cold port-a-potties.

The more than 50-year-old stadium received a decent renovation in 2014 but is still showing its age. One Google user's review is just one word: "Yuck."

"

15. University of North Carolina at Charlotte: Jerry Richardson Stadium


July 13, 2018 - Charlotte, North Carolina, USA: Aerial views of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.  Established in 1946, UNCC is a growing campus with over 29,000 students.
Action Sports Photography / Shutterstock



Charlotte, North Carolina

Although the 49ers pack this stadium for their Conference USA games, there are high schools with bigger homes. The stadium — built in 2011 — is well-liked by fans, but its compact size can make things feel a little squished.

With a capacity of only around 15,000, this small stadium is below NCAA standards.

But expansion plans that are under consideration would add luxury boxes and seating for nearly 25,000 more spectators, so the stadium would eventually hold a roaring 40,000 seated fans.

Here's how one fan sees the size issue, in a Google review: "Beautiful stadium, not very big but that makes the experience that much better."

"

14. Ball State: Scheumann Stadium


Muncie - Circa March 2017: Scheumann Stadium at Ball State University. Scheumann stadium opened in 1967 and is home to the Ball State University Cardinals I
Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock



Muncie, Indiana

Scheumann Stadium would never make a Top 10 list from Ball State alum David Letterman.

The nearly 50-year-old venue — which christened its gridiron in 1967 and seats 22,000 people — underwent a major renovation in 2007. Most people agree that Scheumann Stadium doesn't have a bad seat in the house.

But the game day atmosphere can be abysmal because the Cardinals have struggled for years with attendance and have had difficulty attracting top-name players and opponents.

The building itself isn't bad (it even has heated bathrooms), but fans gripe about the parking. "Parking is far and walking necessary," writes one Google reviewer. "Could improve fan participating and hype."

"

13. University of Akron: InfoCision Stadium


InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field is a college American football stadium in Akron, Ohio and the home field of the Akron Zips football team at the University of Akron.
Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons



Akron, Ohio

The Akron Zips have been trying to rebuild their attendance numbers that sank following some terrible seasons, including three straight — from 2010 through 2012 — that each ended with only one win and 11 losses.

In 2018, Akron had just a 4-and-8 record. So, fans and team spirit can still be lacking at InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field which was built brand-new in 2009.

Many Google reviewers write about how the lack of fan support can completely ruin the experience.

"I would honestly love going there if they actually had a fan base," says one. "Almost every time I went there it was me and the marching band being the only people in the stands."

"

12. University of Louisiana-Lafayette: Cajun Field


Cajun Field (Lafayette, Louisiana)
Spatms / Wikimedia Commons



Lafayette, Lousiana

Home to the Ragin’ Cajuns, Cajun Field, which seats over 40,000 people, has been known for its lack of a student section, which contributes to a ho-hum game day experience.

The muted enthusiasm levels might help explain the Cajuns' relatively poor attendance numbers in a football-loving state.

While the stadium does get five stars on Yelp, there are only two reviews. "Only thing it could have used was some shade, so hot!" writes one fan.

Others, writing on Google, grumble that the place is too pricey. As one reviewer puts it, "The stadium and the football game itself was nice but $21 to get in, $10 to park."

"

11. University of Idaho: Kibbie Dome


Moscow, ID, USA - June 13, 2016:University of Idaho campus. Kibbie Dome used for Football games
Charles Knowles / Shutterstock



Moscow, Idaho

The Kibbie Dome is one of the most unusual venues in the NCAA. The 43-year-old stadium, which seats fewer than 16,000, has a domed roof made of wood.

An opposing coach once famously said the barrel-arched building looked like "a Campbell's Soup can cut in half."

The stadium is completely indoors, and fans often come away surprised. "It's a giant indoor football field. Very interesting both because of size, and the fact that they felt that our local college team needed this so they could practice," says one Google reviewer.

The Vandals find it hard to attract great talent to a football program in Moscow, in northern Idaho. And, the attendance figures tend to be well below Football Bowl Subdivision minimums.

"

10. Miami University (Ohio): Yager Stadium


University of Cincinnati Bearcats at Miami University Redhawks
redlegsfan21 / Wikimedia Commons



Oxford, Ohio

Miami of Ohio may have an active student body, and a vibrant fraternity and sorority scene. But none of that translates to much excitement for football home games.

Yager Stadium, built in 1983 and last renovated in 2005, has capacity for more than 24,000 fans. But many of the seats are often empty.

The Redhawks haven't had a winning season since 2010, which may be one reason for the team's poor attendance. Their field may be another.

One Google reviewer calls the stadium one of "the blandest" in the Midwest. Another says, and not meaning it in a good way: "The atmosphere reminds you of a high school football game."

"

9. Central Michigan University: Kelly/Shorts Stadium


Kelly/Shorts Stadium at Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan. This game featured Michigan State University vs. Central Michigan University.
PureMichiganChip / Wikimedia Commons



Mount Pleasant, Michigan

With Michigan and Michigan State both just a few hours away, Kelly/Shorts Stadium finds it tough to attract a great crowd.

Attendance is regularly below the FBS minimum, even though the place can seat 45,000. The Chippewas had a pathetic 1-and-11 record last season, which didn't help matters.

And, some fans say the 46-year-old stadium needs work and is potentially dangerous, particularly for seniors "Could be a great place but the steps are steep with no handrails and they have like five trash cans for the entire stadium," grumbles one Google reviewer.

The lack of trash receptacles is puzzling, given that Kelly/Shorts has a decent selection of concessions.

"

8. Rice University: Rice Stadium


Aerial view of Rice University football stadium, Houston, Texas
Amble / Wikimedia Commons



Houston

The Rice Owls play in a 47,000 seat stadium — which is often half empty. That makes for a game day experience that isn't great.

The stadium dates back to 1950, and its upper bowl, in particular, has been poorly maintained. Fans say upgrades are long overdue.

Advertisements

Says one, reviewing on Google: "A good place to watch a football game, but definitely lacking the amenities we've all come to expect in modern stadiums." Another calls Rice Stadium a "throwback to the '60s."

On top of that, there are too few concession stands to serve even the smallish numbers of fans who do turn out. In a capacity crowd, lots of people would go home hungry.

"

7. University of Memphis: Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium


Panorama of Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium during a game against Ole Miss on 16 October 2015 in Memphis, TN. Memphis won 37-24.
Azyrii / Wikimedia Commons



Memphis, Tennessee

The home of the Memphis Tigers looks futuristic — for the 1960s. Liberty Bowl Memorial was built in 1965, and the bowl-like structure has not been aging well.

Seeing the place half empty only accentuates all the evidence that the place is super outdated. For a typical game, Memphis pulls in less than half of the stadium's capacity, and that's being generous.

Plus, multiple fans reviewing on Google complain that Liberty Bowl Memorial has no emergency plan for lightning. "This is a dangerous, understaffed facility, recklessly close to a very active major train line," says one fan.

Another says, "Fans were not allowed to go to their seats due to lightning and were forced to compact themselves in the concession areas. Emergency personnel were not able to freely move through the dense crowds of people."

"

6. University of Louisiana at Monroe: JPS Field at Malone Stadium


Panoramic view of Malone Stadium on the campus of the University of Louisiana at Monroe.
JonRidinger / Wikimedia Commons



Monroe, Louisiana

Situated deep in the boonies of Louisiana, Louisiana-Monroe has a good football program. But the Warhawks have the unfortunate combination of a small fan base and a stadium that's badly in need of a facelift.

The 40-year-old JPS Field at Malone Stadium is in rough shape, even after recent renovations to the scoreboard, playing field and exterior buildings.

"Run-down and nasty... smelled like a sewer... no excuse for this... put some money back in to your football program," writes another Google reviewer.

And another reviewer says some changes have been unfortunate. "I'm not sure how anyone would think that cutting down ALL of the beautiful shade trees down and killing off the awesome Grove tailgating area would be a great move."

"

5. San Jose State University: CEFCU Stadium


The San Jose State University Marching Band performs before the 2015 homecoming football game at Spartan Stadium in San Jose, California on October 17, 2015.
Arbor to SJ / Wikimedia Commons



San Jose, California

Since their neighbors include some of the top companies in Silicon Valley, you might assume that the San Jose State Spartans play in a palace.

Instead, the stadium is tired to say the least, seating over 30,000 but not having gotten an ounce of TLC since the 1980s.

Plus, the field is Astroturf, and the seating is fairly inaccessible to fans with physical disabilities, and to seniors. In 2018. Need we say more?

CEFCU Stadium has a couple dozen reviews on Yelp and earns only three stars. "OK. I get that it's old. I get that it's small. But come on, let's put a little money into the concessions," writes one Yelper.

"

4. Eastern Michigan University: Rynearson Stadium


Rynearson Stadium on a winter night, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan.
Dwight Burdette / Wikimedia Commons



Ypsilanti, Michigan

This nearly 50-year-old stadium has a running track around the football field, giving the place a high-school-esque feel.

The track can make fans feel far-removed from the action on the gridiron.

One Google reviewer recommends checking out Rynearson if you have an opportunity — because you need to see it to believe it. "This is probably the worst stadium in Division 1 (FBS) football," he writes. "For that alone, it was worth a visit."

Rynearson used to be packed for Eagles games, holding up to 30,000, but those days are long gone. Now, Eastern Michigan is lucky to get its stadium two-thirds full, even for big rivalry games.

"

3. University of Texas at San Antonio: Alamodome


SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, USA - AUGUST 1, 2018: Aerial drone image of the Alamodome in San Antonio Texas
Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock



San Antonio

The 25-year-old Alamodome is massive. It has a capacity for up to 64,000 football fans — which doesn't do the UTSA Roadrunners any favors.

Last season's home opener drew more than 42,000 fans, though that still meant that about a third of the stadium was empty.

No matter how large the turnout, having so many empty seats around the stadium leaves much of the game day atmosphere at the door.

The Alamodome gets just two and a half stars on Yelp. "The grading and angles of the stands create too many blind spots," says one negative reviewer. "I probably would have been better off watching the game from home."

"

2. University of Hawaii: Aloha Stadium


HONOLULU, HI - DECEMBER 4: UNLV vs. UH: Teams walk towards locker rooms at half time of football game. taken on December 4, 2010 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Eric Broder Van Dyke / Shutterstock



Honolulu

Aloha Stadium used to be something of a crown jewel in Honolulu, but now the 43-year-old venue is looking faded.

In 2016, the venue underwent $1.2 million in renovations, but fans say they don't see much improvement. "The stadium is in desperate need of repairs," one Yelper wrote just recently.

Officials are now planning a complete rebuild of the tired stadium and have released plans for three separate options. Among the proposed changes? Downsizing from a capacity of 50,000 to just 35,000.

Fans might be more forgiving if they had a better team to cheer for. The Rainbow Warriors have had trouble finishing their seasons with winning records, though in 2018 they went 8 and 6.

"

1. Vanderbilt University: Vanderbilt Stadium


Vandy vs. Tennessee, 2016
Mhar564 / Wikimedia Commons



Nashville, Tennessee

For a private university once called one of the most expensive colleges in America, it's somewhat surprising that Vanderbilt doesn't have a better stadium to host its Commodores.

Instead, one of the nation's most beautiful campuses has an ugly stadium built in 1922 that often draws only half-capacity crowds for football. It's our choice for the worst field in college football.

"Sad excuse for a stadium," is how one Google reviewer sums the place up. Says another: "It's old and small. Nicer high school stadiums put it to shame."

Did we miss a stadium? Do want to defend your home turf? Let us know why you think another stadium deserves a spot — or why your home stadium needs to some vindication.

Foul! The Worst Ballparks in Major League Baseball


Here are the ballparks with the most strikes against them.
Shutterstock
Here are the ballparks with the most strikes against them.


It costs a family of four an average of just under $235 to go to a major league baseball game in 2019, including refreshments, parking and souvenirs, according to Team Marketing Report. That can put a serious dent in the family bank account.

At those prices, you want good value and a good experience. Some ballparks give it, others do not.

Forbes has ranked all 30 MLB stadiums, taking into account design, amenities and the views. Here are the ballparks with the most strikes against them — the ones in the lower half of the ranking, counting down to the worst of all. Yeeeeer out!

16. Comerica Park, Detroit


DETROIT, CIRCA MAY 2016. Marked by its signature tiger statues, Comerica Park is a baseball park which was part of the revitalization of Detroit and replaced Tiger Stadium in 2000.
robert cicchetti / Shutterstock
Comerica Park aspires to greatness but falls short.


The Motor City lost its baseball identity when the Tigers decided to move on from iconic Tiger Stadium after the 1999 season. Comerica Park has tried to model itself on the great cathedrals of baseball but lacks their character and well-thought-out design.

The seats are smallish, and over 90% of them are exposed to the elements. Overall, Comerica is very average when it comes to MLB ballparks.

"What kind of took me by surprise is that I found the ballpark to be very simple," writes one fan, on Yelp. "It was 'plain vanilla' to me and nothing really stood out."

"

15. Target Field, Minneapolis


MINNEAPOLIS - APRIL 21: Brand new Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins, a ballpark that returns outdoor baseball to the city, on April 21, 2010 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Frank Romeo / Shutterstock
Target Field falls short of the mark for some fans.



The Minnesota Twins' 9-year-old ballpark is a huge improvement over the old Metrodome, but it's still rather average compared to others around the league.

Fans complain about bad acoustics and seats that seem too far from the field. Some also say that the concessions are lacking.

"The stadium seems older than it is. It is in need of a facelift," writes one Yelp reviewer.

"

14. Miller Park, Milwaukee


MILWAUKEE, WI - JUL 15:  Miller Park is a ballpark located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Jul 15, 2009.
Action Sports Photography / Shutterstock
Miller Park can seem cavernous, particularly when its roof is closed.



The home of the Brewers is unique in the MLB, but that doesn't necessarily mean good. When the roof is closed, it feels like the game is happening in a giant cave.

"From outside, the building is as impressive as any ballpark, but inside all I could think was that this was a great big bowl that had its own cover for inclement weather. It's lacking character," says a Yelper.

Here's a tip: Choose seats down the first base line, as third base seats have an obstructed view of the scoreboard.

"

13. SunTrust Park, Atlanta


ATLANTA - MAY 10: An entrance to Suntrust Park in Atlanta, Georgia on May 10, 2017. Suntrust Park is a ballpark and the home field of Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves.
Katherine Welles / Shutterstock
The Braves' ballpark doesn't offer much relief from the sun.



The Braves play in the newest stadium in the majors — it opened just before the 2017 season. The ballpark looks gorgeous, with bars and restaurants lining the entry, and there are some great sightlines.

However, designers seemed to forget that the place is in Atlanta. There's little shade for fans, so in August you need to bring some sunscreen and a hat, preferably one with a big brim.

Fans on Yelp gripe about traffic, parking and the difficulty in getting to SunTrust Park by public transit.

"

12. Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia


PHILADELPHIA - SEPTEMBER 7: Fans enter Citizens Bank Park, home of the Phillies, on September 7, 2010 in Philadelphia. This baseball only stadium opened in 2004, replacing Veterans Stadium.
Frank Romeo / Shutterstock
The Phillie Phanatic watches over one of the entrances to Citizens Bank Park.



The 15-year-old ballpark where the Phillies play has a solid retro-modern design, but doesn't have all the modern amenities — particularly if you're trying to watch a game on a chilly April night.

The lack of cover is not ideal during spring and fall in a northern climate.

Fans on Yelp are mostly positive, though one writes: "There were too few vendors walking the aisles so (I) had to keep getting up for beer, peanuts etc..."

"

11. Progressive Field, Cleveland


CLEVELAND - AUGUST 21: Progressive Field in the center of Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock
The Indians' ballpark leaves some underwhelmed.



Retro-modern Progressive Field has been the Indians' home since 1994 and has great views and some of the best lower-bowl seats in the league.

But for all its charms, the park leaves some unimpressed.

"It helped usher in the era of sterile modern ballparks. Nothing terribly special here," says one guy on Yelp. Another writes: "It doesn't stand out with any redeeming qualities or modern features compared to all the new ballparks out there today."

"

10. Minute Maid Park, Houston


HOUSTON, TX, USA - SEPTEMBER 10, 2018: Oversized baseball's sit outside of Minute Maid Stadium, home to the MLB's Houston Astro's.
Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock
Oversized baseballs line the entrances to Minute Maid Park.



Home to the Houston Astros, 19-year-old Minute Maid Park mixes retro aesthetics with a modern retractable roof. Most home games are under the roof, so if you head to the "Juice Box," be prepared for some indoor baseball.

Some diehard fans still lament the loss of the legendary Astrodome.

"As a native Houstonian, Minute Maid is a major league embarrassment," says one Yelper. "The whole place looks like it had not been painted since 1962. Come on Astros. All the money this city has given you, I would expect a little better treatment of the fans. A disgrace."

"

9. Rogers Centre, Toronto


TORONTO, CANADA - JULY 2: Rogers Center closeup on July 2, 2012 in Toronto. It was Opened in 1989 as the home of Toronto Blue Jays and is the first to have retractable motorized roof.
Songquan Deng / Shutterstock
Some fans feel cooped up inside the Blue Jays' domed stadium.



As an avid Blue Jays fan, I refuse to call this stadium Rogers Centre. It's the Skydome and always will be! The park also needs an uplift.

The food is due for a revamp, the bathrooms could use some renovation and the seats need replacing.

More than one Yelper complains about the tight quarters. "The seats are a little small and there are no cup holders," writes one.

"

8. Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati


CINCINNATI - APRIL 12: Great American Ball Park stadium on April 12, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
photo.ua / Shutterstock
The Cincinnati Reds' ballpark along the Ohio River is pricey and humdrum to some.



The Cincinnati Reds' riverfront ballpark is yet another retro-modern park built in the mid-2000s. It's fairly average, though it can be a fun place to watch a game when the stadium is full — which has not been the case for a while.

"The general overpriced nature of the ballpark will always be a thing — but Cincinnati, if you look at price per income capita compared to other larger metropolitan cities, is actually wayyyyyy overpriced," a fan complains on Yelp.

"

7. Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.


WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 23: Brand new Nationals Park, home of the Nats, on June 23, 2008 in Washington, DC. Opened in 2008 at a cost of $611 million, the stadium seats over 41,000.
Frank Romeo / Shutterstock
The Nats' stadium can feel sterile.



The Nationals got a new home in 2008, but the rather sterile stadium — meant to resemble a national monument — lacks character. When the park opened, you could see the U.S. Capitol from most seats, but new development has blocked those views.

The food can seem average, and fans should brace for long lines at security and the concessions.

On Yelp, some reviewers complain about bored, disinterested fans on business outings who chatter away during the games and ruin the experience for others.

"

6. Angel Stadium, Anaheim, California


ANAHEIM, CA - MARCH 16: The Angel Stadium of Anaheim located in Anaheim, California
Katherine Welles / Shutterstock
The home of the Los Angeles Angels can feel stuck in the 1960s.



Angel Stadium is one of the oldest parks in the league: It opened in the mid-1960s, and it seems to struggle to get out of that decade.

The food options are equal to what you'd find in a mall food court, and the lines rival those at nearby Disneyland.

Fans of the Los Angeles Angels (the team's official name) say watch out for partial-view seats. As one Yelper puts it: "There is such a thing as a bad seat here."

"

5. Marlins Park, Miami


MIAMI, USA - MARCH 20, 2017: Aerial image of Marlins Park Miami Florida USA
Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock



The Miami Marlins really missed the mark with this modern, retractable-roof stadium that opened in 2012.

The experience is "more tacky than grand," says Forbes — though some changes have been made for the 2019 season to class the place up. The notorious $2 million home run sculpture is gone!

"The worst part was the horrible traffic trying to park and leaving the area," says one Yelp reviewer. "Took us an hour to find parking."

"

4. Chase Field, Phoenix


PHOENIX, AZ - JUNE 21: Chase Field opened in the Spring of 1998 to house the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix, AZ is shown with both the top and side windows open on June 21, 2009
Doug James / Shutterstock
A retractable roof is a must for the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.



The modern and ginormous home of the Arizona Diamondbacks "feels more like an airplane hangar inside," according to Forbes.

Watching a game here, it can seem like you are a million miles away from home plate.

The retractable roof keeps out the often stifling heat, and Yelpers rave about the AC. But some say the food is only so-so — and overpriced.

"

3. Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago


CHICAGO - APRIL 25: White Sox baseball players under the lights and famous upper deck facade
Frank Romeo / Shutterstock
Guaranteed Rate Field, where the Chicago White Sox play, can feel charmless.



Home of the Chicago White Sox, Guaranteed Rate Field is something of a trendsetter — but that's not a great thing. Though it was the first of the retro-modern stadiums when it opened in 1991, it "never had any charm," Forbes says.

It's hard to compete with the Chicago Cubs' historic Wrigley Field.

"The ballpark just seems to lack personality, says one Yelp reviewer. "The ballpark feels eerily empty by comparison to many others I've visited."

"

2. Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland, California


Oakland, California, USA - September 19, 2016:  Aerial view of the Oakland Coliseum baseball stadium.  Home of the Oakland Athletics.
trekandshoot / Shutterstock
The Oakland Athletics share their stadium with the NFL's Raiders.



The Oakland Athletics play in a park with an "aging, cookie-cutter design" that lacks views of the surrounding Oakland Hills, Forbes says.

If the 53-year-old stadium doesn't seem totally baseball-friendly, that's because it's also home to the NFL's Oakland Raiders.

"The Oakland Coliseum probably should have been demolished and replaced over 20 years ago," writes one fan, on Yelp.

"

1. Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida


ST PETERSBURG, FL, USA - FEBRUARY 15, 2018: Aerial wide angle image Tropicana Field St Petersburg Florida USA
Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
With its dome that doesn't open, Tropicana Field looks like a big top.



In the cellar on this list is the Tampa Bay Rays' ballpark, the majors' only remaining stadium with a dome that doesn't retract. That "makes the ballpark experience call to mind being inside a fluted cow pie," Forbes says.

Another negative is that "crowd" sizes can be about the same as what minor league clubs draw.

"Ugh! Thats how I feel anytime I go into this stadium," writes one Yelper.

Major Assets: The Most Valuable Teams in Baseball


Baseball and bat on a pile of $100 American currency
Africa Studio / Shutterstock
The most valuable Major League Baseball teams are multi billion-dollar enterprises with annual sales in the hundreds of millions.


Sure, baseball is a game, romanticized as the "national pastime." But it's also big business.

The most valuable Major League Baseball teams are multibillion-dollar enterprises with annual sales in the hundreds of millions.

Forbes is out with its annual estimates of what MLB teams are worth. Which clubs really knock it out of the park, financially speaking?

Follow along as we count down the 15 most valuable baseball franchises of 2018.

15. Seattle Mariners


Seattle, Safeco Field
alens / Shutterstock
The Mariners play at Safeco Field.


Value: $1.45 billion

The Pacific Northwest team has seen its worth grow by 4% in the last year.

The Mariners have a young squad and should see their financial standing continue to improve as the team starts to gel.

Attendance and TV ratings have been dropping for the last few years. But if the team can turn their record around, the gate and TV revenues should increase.

"

14. Chicago White Sox


CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 29: Close up of Gavin Floyd warms up before the Chicago White Sox vs. Seattle Mariners game at U.S. Cellular Field April 29, 2009 in Chicago, IL.
John Kershner / Shutterstock
The White Sox have struggled to draw more fans at the ballpark and on TV.



Value: $1.5 billion

Though not nearly as high on the list as that other Chicago ball club, the White Sox have earned a spot despite their struggles to attract fans at Guaranteed Rate Field and on TV. The team's value is up 11% from last year.

The White Sox are in the bottom third in the league for attendance, with fewer than 2 million fans coming through the gates last season. And Forbes says their TV ratings were second-worst in the majors.

But the young team now in place could make for a brighter future.

"

13. Texas Rangers


ARLINGTON, TX - MARCH 13: Globe Life Park in Arlington in Arlington, Texas on March 13, 2014.
Katherine Welles / Shutterstock
The Rangers play at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas.



Value: $1.6 billion

After a losing season in 2017, the Texas Rangers have seen their worth increase by just a slight 3% compared to last year.

A partnership with the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters — one of the best teams in Japan — could bring some star players across the Pacific to play at Globe Life Park in Arlington.

The Rangers do well when it comes to TV ratings. If they can ever win a championship, they might be able to overtake their cross-state rivals, the Houston Astros, in the value ranking.

"

12. Atlanta Braves


Mike Foltynewicz pitcher  for the Atlanta Braves at Chase Field in Phoenix,AZ USA July 25,2017.
Keeton Gale / Shutterstock
Pitcher Mike Foltynewicz and other players for the Braves now play at SunTrust Park.



Value: $1.63 Billion

The Braves enjoyed a big jump in attendance when they moved into SunTrust Park last season, and that contributed to the franchise's 8% rise in value.

The team had some of baseball's best sales numbers during 2017, and those stats are likely to improve as the Braves put some of the expenses from the new stadium behind them.

They've set themselves up for future success by developing a strong farm system.

"

11. Houston Astros


George Springer right fielder for the Houston Astros at Chase Field in Phoenix,AZ USA August 15,2017.
Keeton Gale / Shutterstock
Right fielder George Springer was named the Astros' World Series MVP.



Value: $1.65 billion

Thanks to their very first World Series win, the Astros have seen their value surge 14% compared to a year ago.

Houston ranked in the top five for revenue in 2017, and attendance hit an eight-year high.

Owner Jim Crane’s next challenge is to grow the number of season ticket holders at Minute Maid Park. There were 13,000 last season; the goal is 20,000.

"

10. Washington Nationals


Washington D.C, USA - 4 July 2017: The fans walking into an early morning baseball game between the Nationals and the Met's on the fourth of July 2017
WoodysPhotos / Shutterstock
The Nationals are worth a lot of capital.



Value: $1.68 billion

The team that used to be the Montreal Expos has seen its fortunes rise dramatically since moving to Washington, D.C., in 2005.

The Nationals' value is up by 5% over last year, thanks largely to strong play on the field. The team won the NL East the last two seasons.

However, their payroll exceeded Major League Baseball's luxury tax threshold, resulting in a $1.2 million penalty and leading to some uncertainty coming into 2018.

"

9. Philadelphia Phillies


A closeup of Philadelphia Phillies baseball logo on field
Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock
The Phillies' value has been enhanced by a rich TV deal.



Value: $1.7 billion

The Phillies have seen a 3% rise in valuation from last year. Their strong financial standing is partly due to a rich deal to keep the Phillies on local TV screens.

The 25-year contract with Comcast SportsNet began in 2016 and is worth more than $5 billion!

The team made some good free agent additions in the off-season and is hoping to stay out of their division cellar, where they wound up in two out of the last three seasons.

"

8. Los Angeles Angels


ANAHEIM, CA/USA - OCTOBER 10, 2015: Iconic oversized Angels baseball cap at the entrance to Angel Stadium, home of  Major League Baseball's Los Angeles Angels.
Ken Wolter / Shutterstock
The Angels' stadium is 30 miles from Los Angeles.



Value: $1.8 billion

The Angels — who still play in Anaheim, about 30 miles from downtown L.A. — recently landed Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, and with this signing came a major sponsorship from Japan's Funai Electronics.

It's the kind of landmark deal that should keep the Angels gaining in value from year to year.

Their current worth represents a 3% increase from 2017.

"

7. St. Louis Cardinals


ST LOUIS - MAY 23: Busch Stadium home of the Saint Louis Cardinals and site of the 2009 All Star Game during game against the Kansas City Royals in St. Louis, MO on May 23, 2009
Gino Santa Maria / Shutterstock
St. Louis' iconic Gateway Arch is visible from the Cardinals' Busch Stadium.



Value: $1.9 billion

Though the Cardinals missed the playoffs the last two years in a row, baseball fans keep coming to Busch Stadium in droves. The team ranks second in attendance, pulling in more than 42,000 per game, on average.

St. Louis hopes a big drawing card throughout the 2018 season will be Paul DeJong, an electric rookie who was secured for six years during the off-season.

Although their TV numbers have been dwindling, the Cards saw a 6% year-over-year increase in their value.

"

6. New York Mets


FLUSHING, NY - FEB. 17:  Citi Field baseball stadium in Flushing, NYC as seen on Feb. 17, 2012
littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock
The Mets don't get as much respect as New York's other team, but they're a financial power in their own right.



Value: $2.1 billion

Though the Mets are often regarded as the "other team" in New York, they're still a financial powerhouse. In 2018, they'll be looking to build on their 5% rise in valuation over 2017.

They saw drops in attendance and their TV numbers during an injury-ravaged season last year.

But a couple of factors should guarantee a good financial performance in 2018: The team is healthy, and the Mets recently signed a hefty sponsorship deal with New Balance.

"

5. Boston Red Sox


Boston - May 30: Fans do the wave at historic Fenway Park during Memorial Day game against the Chicago White Sox on May 30, 2011 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Joyce Vincent / Shutterstock
The Red Sox have a very strong fan base.



Value: $2.8 billion

One of the most iconic teams in MLB, the Boston Red Sox saw the already high value of their franchise go up by 4% over the last year.

The team has been successful on the field, too, though they fell to the Astros in the 2017 AL Division series.

However, for the first time since 2014, the Red Sox didn't go over the luxury tax threshold. They avoided a $1.5 million penalty, and the savings should help the Sox build a successful team and continue to draw big crowds and bigger TV numbers.

"

4. San Francisco Giants

Value: $2.85 Billion


San Francisco, California, USA, October 16, 2014, AT&T Park, baseball stadium, SF Giants versus St. Louis Cardinals, National League Championship Series (NLCS)
Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock
The Giants' attendance numbers are the envy of other teams.



The Giants have seen an 8% year-over-year increase in their valuation — and there are tons of reasons why.

The team has 31,000 season ticket holders and the third-highest attendance in the league, so it's no wonder that visiting teams feel a lot of envy when they're at AT&T Park.

The Giants have been dominant in the 2010s, winning three World Series trophies, and they're on pace to build another successful team that should keep their financial numbers solid.

"

3. Chicago Cubs


Close-up of signage at Wrigley Field, Illinois, home of Chicago Cubs
Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock
The Cubs' iconic status is a big reason for the team's high value.



Value: $2.9 billion

The Cubbies — it's hard not to love them! Thanks to one of the strongest fan bases in baseball, the Cubs were able to raise ticket prices by 20% last year and lost only 1% of their season ticket holders as a result.

Replacements weren't hard to find: More than 100,000 other fans are on a waiting list. The franchise's enduring popularity has helped its value rise 8% over last year.

The team is currently in the midst of dealing with its complicated TV coverage. The Cubs hope to score a very lucrative contract when their current deal runs out in 2020.

"

2. Los Angeles Dodgers


Dodger baseball logo, Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA on October 12, 2008
Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock
The Dodgers could make a killing selling the naming rights to Dodger Stadium.



Value: $3 billion

The Dodgers were just one out away from winning another championship in 2017 but couldn't close the deal. The team's strong postseason performance contributed to an impressive 9% gain in value for the franchise, vs. last year.

With a great slate of players and some top prospects in the pipeline, the Dodgers should be a juggernaut on and off the field for years to come.

The club is considering selling naming rights to Dodger Stadium for $12 million per season, which will only add to the Dodgers' growing revenues.

"

1. New York Yankees


NEW YORK - AUGUST 17: Entrance to Yankee store in New York, United States America. Photo taken on: August 17th, 2015.

Advertisements

Vividrange / Shutterstock
The Yankees are the most valuable team for the 21st consecutive year.



Value: $4 billion

Love 'em or hate 'em, the Yankees are the most valuable team in baseball — for the 21st year in a row!

Thanks in part to a rise in attendance and a big jump in TV viewership, the Bronx Bombers have seen their overall worth climb 8% over the last year.

Led by Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez and Luis Severino, the Yankees look ready to cement their No. 1 spot on this list for years to come.

"

Advertisements

Related Articles

Comments