I grew up a baseball fan but stopped attending games due to a loss of interest. Recently, I went to an Angels vs Royals game and was shocked by the behavior of fans at the stadium.
Summary
- Traditional MLB experience marred by increasing hecklers and drunk attendees.
- Observers note historic instances of rowdy behavior in contrast to modern incidents.
- Opinions vary on whether the behavior is widespread or localized.
- Shift in atmosphere from family-friendly to bar-like ambiance causes concern among long-time fans.
Heckling & Drunkenness: A Commonplace Trend?
One user recalls past encounters with unruly fans, suggesting that such behavior has been a long-standing issue within MLB crowds. The memory of a physical altercation at a game decades ago highlights the severity of the problem during different eras.
Changing Fan Dynamics
Another user reflects on the unpredictability of crowd behavior, emphasizing that the experience can vary greatly depending on individual encounters in the stands. They suggest that the perceived increase in misbehavior may be influenced by personal changes in tolerance over time.
Nosebleed Nonsense & Drunk Driving Dilemma
A commenter acknowledges the prevalence of disruptive conduct, particularly in higher seating sections, and points out the concerning trend of excessive drinking leading to dangerous behaviors like drunk driving. The normalization of drinking throughout games poses a serious risk to fan safety.
Amidst these observations, a common sentiment emerges—a perceived shift in the stadium ambiance towards a more raucous and less family-friendly environment. Long-time fans express dismay at what they perceive as a departure from the traditional spirit of the game, highlighting concerns about the future of the live baseball experience.