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Goodyear Ballpark reports steady 2026 spring‑training season despite heat
Summary
Ballpark managers told the City Council the 2026 spring‑training season drew roughly 146,000 fans, including a March 16 crowd of more than 8,000, and highlighted renovated suites, a popular left‑field group area and volunteer support of more than 80 people contributing about 4,000 hours.
Bruce Gusman, Goodyear Ballpark general manager, and assistant general manager Cody Dischbein briefed the City Council on the 2026 spring‑training season, describing a largely successful year despite “unprecedented heat.” The season included 30 games (15 per team), a total attendance of about 146,000 and a high‑water mark of more than 8,000 fans at the March 16 game against the Cubs.
Gusman and Dischbein said the facility completed several upgrades ahead of the season, including renovated suites and a new left‑field group area called the “left field landing,” which they said sold out regularly and accommodates groups up to 150. Dischbein noted volunteer contributions were substantial: “we had over 80 volunteers help us during the season, accumulating over 4,000 hours,” a key factor in operations and fan experience.
Councilmembers praised the ballpark as an economic and community asset. Councilmember Terry asked whether attendance trended up or down; staff replied attendance was “down slightly, I believe, around 2 to 3%,” a result councilmembers said was unsurprising given competing events like the World Baseball Classic. Members also highlighted the ballpark’s role in economic‑development outreach and community engagement.
The presentation closed with a reminder that the ballpark hosts year‑round events — from Little League games on the main field to holiday festivals and tournaments — and staff said they will continue to pursue activities that keep the venue active outside of spring training.
