Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- For the first time, Syracuse Chiefs fans got a chance to check out the new high-tech scoreboard during their double-header on Tuesday. But will the changes be enough to attract new fans to fill some of the empty seats?
“Well, it is really bright and last year it didn’t say the innings and stuff. This year it does, so I really like it,” Chiefs fan, Justine Young told NewsChannel 9.
Eleven-year-old Justine is impressed with the fancy new scoreboard and a hot dog smothered with mac-n-cheese.
“I had this earlier and I think this one is for my brother and it was really good and I don't think they sold it last year,” Justine continued.
Each new concession has its own theme, introduced by a new vendor this season and a million dollar, 1,800-pound LED scoreboard is the fifth largest in minor league baseball. The changes are part of an effort to improve the overall fan experience and ultimately fill more seats.
"It gives you a lot more information about what is going on in the game. It can be more interactive for the kids. It gives them something to look at and cheer about and dance to,” said Stacy Peios, who was at Tuesday’s game.
"I've been to Yankee Stadium and this is miniature. I've been to a lot of big league parks and this is the way it should be. This is really nice. I like it,” said Chiefs fan, Chuck Dominick.
Chuck is still on the fence about the new hot dogs, but he's happy to see an investment being made at the ballpark.
The team manager plans to add hospitality areas next.
"A lot of people are doing hospitality down at the ends where you take out seats and put terraces in. So, a few more things to market toward those corporations that want to bring groups out to the ball park,” Chiefs General Manager, John Simone told NewsChannel 9.
The county chipped in $200,000 for the scoreboard and we’re told it will last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
