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Abstract

This study was designed to assess the effects of winning percentage and market size on attendance in minor league baseball. Two basic questions were posed: (a) Did attendance correlate with winning percentage and market size across competitive levels? and (b) How much variance (interpretabiiity) could be accounted for by winning percentage and market size in predicting attendance? The data were examined using correlation and hierarchical multiple regression procedures for winning percentage and host city population by competition levels on season attendance for a recent five year period. Results indicated that population was an effective predictor for attendance at Rookie League and Class A (Short Season) levels, whereas winning percentage was significant in predicting attendance at Class A and AA levels. No population or winning percentage effects were found at the Class AAA level. The findings can serve as a rationale for locating franchises and corresponding marketing strategies in minor league baseball.

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Effects of Winning Percentage and Market Size on Attendance in Minor League Baseball

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