I hope this article from The Wall Street Journal isn’t too prophetic as it warns of newspapers’ shrinking presence in the press box.
A few years back, I worked as a part-time reporter for STATS at Mets and Yankees home games. It was a kick, having my own seat in the box, chatting with “real” members of the media, meeting the reporters and broadcasters I had been following for many years. I found them for the most part, a convivial bunch, not as aloof as I expected. It took me awhile to realize that, despite my rookie status, I was one of them, entitled to the same access and perks, such as media guides and other goodies. As much of a Mets fan as I was (and am. I know, no cheering in the press box), I found the facilities at Yankee Stadium superior, including access to food. The media had its own concession stand where everything was only $1 each. Maybe it was the price, but the food tasted better than at the regular stadium outlets. As far as the Mets, there was a press dining room, all-you-can-eat for something like $7, but nothing convenient for a person who is virtually tethered to his spot.
(Because I was charged with charting every single pitch and noting every detail about every play on the field, the game’s official scorer would ask me — probably more than he should have — about a given event or what the pitch count was. A heavy burden indeed.)
As a consumer of sports news, I have long noticed how local coverage falls off towards the end of the season, especially if the team is not playing “meaningful” games. Sometimes it would just be a wire service story, more often than not at the expense of my Mets. Now, I understand the situation better. I don’t think readers appreciate the cost of sending a reporter (or more) on the road: hotel, air fare, meals, etc. All adds up, after all.
is available on Amazon.com,
Comments on this entry are closed.