With the National and American League pennant series nearing their exciting ends, it’s time to look at potential World Series match-ups and what it means for fans hoping to see the action from the ballpark. A Dodgers-Astros rematch from last year’s thriller of a series would certainly bring excitement, but also hefty ticket prices. When it comes to affordability, a Brewers-Red Sox clash may be a home run in helping baseball fans save.
According to Ticket Club data, preliminary World Series sales found considerably lower ticket prices across potential home games featuring Boston and Milwaukee versus games held in either Houston or LA.
*prices accurate as of October 18
Of the four teams left standing, the Dodgers undoubtedly have been the most consistent, having made the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. Although they haven’t been able to capitalize on their chance at a World Series victory yet, Dodgers fans continue to fill their stadium in droves and create some of the most in-demand tickets in baseball. Should they eek out a win in the NLCS, tickets to see the World Series in Dodger Stadium are generating average ticket prices hovering between $1,200-$1,400 – nearly double what it would cost to see a game in Milwaukee if the Brewers take the pennant.
The Brewers’ faithful fan base would be wise to secure tickets early though. Should Milwaukee advance to the Series for the first time since 1982 (and for a shot at their first-ever Championship ring), their underdog story could cause ticket prices to spike. This was the case only two years ago when the Cubs and Indians met in a historic Series that went the distance. Both teams had a combined World Series drought of 176 years, making it one of the best-selling (and highest-priced) sporting events of the year with resale tickets averaging over $1,100 for games in Cleveland and double that in Chicago.
When looking at the American League contenders, both Boston and Houston have a lot to live up to. The Astros are of course the reigning World Series champions, but the Red Sox racked up the best record in the MLB this season. And while Fenway Park’s small size is always a potential factor that drives up the cost of entry to home games, but excitement surrounding Houston’s chance at defending their ring has sent ticket prices at Minute Maid Park skyrocketing, with their potential home Games 1 and 3 garnering average prices around $1,300 while Boston’s first three games come in at under $1,000.
Will Boston and Milwaukee become hotter markets if they gain an edge in their respective series? Will the Astros and Dodgers see dips in prices? We will continue to monitor these trends as October baseball reaches its pinnacle.