Fans Flock Away from Busch Stadium: Here’s Why
The once-packed stands of Busch Stadium are now looking a little emptier. It’s a concerning trend for the St. Louis Cardinals, who have always had a loyal and dedicated fan base. So why are fans not showing up to support their team?
One reason could be the team’s performance. The Cardinals have had a lackluster season so far, with a record of 50-50. This is a far cry from their usual dominance in the National League Central division. Fans may be losing interest in a team that is not living up to their expectations.
Another factor could be the rising cost of attending a game at Busch Stadium. With ticket prices, parking fees, and concessions all on the rise, it’s becoming more expensive for fans to enjoy a day at the ballpark. This could be deterring some fans from attending games, especially those on a budget.
But perhaps the biggest reason for the decline in attendance is the convenience of watching games from home. With advancements in technology, fans can now watch games from the comfort of their own couch, with access to instant replays and multiple camera angles. This may be a more appealing option for some, especially on hot summer days.
Former Cardinals’ All-Stars Speak Out on Record-Low Attendance in St. Louis in 2025
The St. Louis Cardinals have always had a strong and dedicated fan base, but in 2025, filling Busch Stadium has been a struggle.
Cardinals’ Playoff Success in the 21st Century
From 2000 to 2015, the Cardinals made the playoffs 11 times and won a World Series. However, in the last 10 years, they have only made the playoffs four times and have not returned since 2022.
Insight from Former All-Stars
Longtime Cardinals players and former All-Stars, Matt Holliday and Lance Lynn, recently shared their thoughts on why they believe attendance has been low in 2025.
Holliday, a seven-time All-Star outfielder, and Lynn, a two-time All-Star pitcher, both spent several years with the Cardinals during their MLB careers.
Reasons for Record-Low Attendance
According to Lynn, there are a few factors contributing to the low attendance numbers this season.
“I would tell you that it’s a couple different things: non-contending, kind of over it, disgusted it a little bit with the way the organization’s kind of gone about this season, I would say, of not really adding or anything like that, and subtracting at the deadline and schools back in session,” Lynn said.
He also added, “So when you have all of those come into one at this time of year, you’re not going to get fans in the stands. It doesn’t matter who you are or what kind of fan base you have.”
Holliday agreed with Lynn and expressed his disappointment in seeing Busch Stadium so empty.
“I mean, you’re just not used to watching highlights or watching a game in St. Louis and seeing that many empty seats,” Holliday said. “I think the fan base has not dwindled or disappeared. I just think that people are a little bit frustrated that it’s been a few years now without a real chance to win a World Series.”
He also mentioned the organization’s focus on a transition period and rebuild, which may not be as appealing to fans who want to see a competitive team.
Impact on Attendance
Through 73 home games this season, the Cardinals are averaging 27,834 fans per game, the lowest since 1995 (excluding the COVID-19 season).
It’s clear that the frustration with the team’s performance on the field has affected attendance, and the lack of meaningful games may be a contributing factor as well.
