Dodgers Reach 4 Million Fan Milestone
The Los Angeles Dodgers have accomplished a feat that only nine other teams in the annals of baseball history have managed: drawing over 4 million fans in a single season. This landmark achievement was secured during their season finale against their long-standing rivals, the San Francisco Giants, where a robust crowd of 46,601 packed Dodger Stadium. By season’s end, the Dodgers welcomed a staggering 4,012,470 fans, averaging an impressive 49,537 attendees per game.
Chavez Ravine: The Heartbeat of Baseball
Manager Dave Roberts expressed the profound impact of the fan experience at Dodger Stadium, stating, “Every day these fans post up, and every day they deliver. You can feel their energy, and our guys feed off it. I think we have the best fans in sports.” This palpable atmosphere has been a constant throughout the season, with Los Angeles hosting over 50,000 fans at 46 of their 81 home games. Remarkably, attendance never dipped below 40,000 throughout the entire season. The excitement was amplified by popular promotions, particularly the Dodgers’ renowned bobblehead nights, and the star-studded roster that included the likes of Shohei Ohtani. The Dodgers didn’t just dominate at home; they also led Major League Baseball in road attendance, drawing more than 35,000 fans per game in away parks.
A Rare Achievement in Baseball History
Reaching the 4 million figure is a milestone not witnessed in nearly two decades. The New York Yankees and Mets last achieved this in 2008, while the Toronto Blue Jays and Colorado Rockies each reached the mark briefly in the 1990s. The Dodgers themselves had not surpassed 3 million in a season until 1978 but have since eclipsed that mark an impressive 36 times.
Dodger Stadium: A Cathedral of Sellouts
Opened in 1962, Dodger Stadium remains the largest ballpark in Major League Baseball, boasting a capacity of 56,000. It has become a shrine of sellouts, with Los Angeles leading the majors in attendance for 12 of the past 13 seasons. The only exception occurred in 2020 due to pandemic-related restrictions. This consistent turnout underscores the franchise’s ability to blend winning baseball with fan engagement, making every game an event.
The Essence of Dodger Baseball
For a franchise that has seamlessly woven together triumph and spectacle—from championships to fan giveaways—this milestone serves as a testament to the deep-rooted support of their fan base. Such large crowds don’t arise solely due to geographical advantages; they reflect the reality that Dodger baseball has transcended mere sport to become the quintessential entertainment experience in Los Angeles. Night after night, it stands as the city’s premier show, captivating the hearts of countless fans.
