The unoffical DRaysBay Trop Raid Thread #1

by kericr on Sep 18, 2008 4:40 PM EDT

I started talking about attending Rays playoff games last night, and this post is an extension to that discussion. I mentioned that I was looking for some suggestions as to finding people who want to go to some playoff games, and through people such as JMB, Steve-o1825 and Roc, this has turned into a good group idea, so I've decided to gather some information in hopes of getting this idea up and running in hopes of having a nice solid group of fans representing this site at the Trop. Details after the jump.

Just to note, I personally am prepared to attend at least two games all the way up to, and including the World Series so I am hoping to find some kindred sprits who share this same ideal, but we'll simplify for now and just focus on one game. Thanks to GomesSweetGomes, we know how much it should cost to go to each game. The Rays have went through the trouble through MLB to post the likely schedule of games for the AL playoff series. I've made it to a few games this season, sitting in the upper deck, the outfield, and a set of box seats. Of those three areas, I enjoyed my time in the upper deck the most; I got wonderful seats in section 300 and had a great view of the game even being several rows up, and I'd like to propose that everyone who decides to participate in this attempt to get seats in this area.

Roc has suggested a tailgate, and I'm all for this. Based on this schedule and depending on if the Rays win the Division or the Wildcard, either Games 2 or 3 would be the best option for a tailgate because it's on a Friday or Saturday, but I don't have any good equipment for a tailgate so we'll need some additional volunteers; someone with a grill, a large cooler, seating and shade, etc would be optimal. Hopefully one can be started early; I'll be taking a day off of work to do it.

I went ahead and called the box office to see if a group ticket setup/discount was available. Unfortunately, the Rays will not be offering group discounts for playoff tickets (understandably). Additionally, playoff ticket packages are only available to season ticket holders and those who put in a deposit for season tickets next year. The Rays have not officially put their alottment of playoff tickets for sale yet. Tickemaster has placed some tickets for sale for game 3 of the ALDS, but they're $185.00 baseline box seats only which contridicts the list we currently have. I'm currently in e-mail communications with a ticket rep to get some clarification on this.

I think that step one for everyone who wants to participate in this should be to register for the opportunity to buy postseason tickets on the Rays website. A maximum of 8 tickets per buyer are available so if push comes to shove we can pool on any user who wins the lottery to purchase ALDS tickets.

Note that this is an idea thread only designed to help organize this event; nothing has been set in stone, and my suggestions are mine alone; if you've got a better idea, suggest it.

This post was written by a member of the DRaysBay community and does not necessarily express the views or opinions of DRaysBay staff.

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Comments

Rec'd

Just because this is such a friggin awesome idea.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 18, 2008 4:47 PM EDT reply actions

If it's a game I'm in town for I'll tailgate if possible

May even bring the parents or girlfriend. Who knows?

by rglass44 on Sep 18, 2008 4:59 PM EDT reply actions

I just finished my conversation with the ticket rep

And he said that he doesn’t have any information pertaining to single-game pricing for playoff tickets yet. He did give me some prices for season-ticket holders per game, and they seem to be in-line with a discounted rate for the prices GomesSweetGomes posted earlier on. Ticketmaster is straight-up gouging buyers.

GSG, if you see this, where did you find your price list?

by kericr on Sep 18, 2008 5:10 PM EDT reply actions

$185 for Baseline Box

It’s $45 per possible game, plus $50 season ticket deposit.

Boom. Outta Here.

by Ryan Gilliss on Sep 18, 2008 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions

That makes a hell of a lot more sense.

by kericr on Sep 18, 2008 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions

That's the way I understood it.

I read an email from the Rays last night, and the $185 is for the 3 possible ALDS games and the $50 deposit for next year.

by rayweaver on Sep 19, 2008 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions

When you go to ticketmaster's site, it just lists game 3 baseline box seats for $185 so it's not clear on that

I wasn’t about to go call ticketmaster anyway about this since my preference is not those seats.

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions

The Rays Website is updated with the single-game pricing we already had

http://tampabay.rays.mlb.com/tb/ticketing/postseason_info.jsp

by ReasonableDoubt on Sep 19, 2008 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions

The price list came in the package sent by the Rays to season ticket holders

It was included with the invoice for the postseason tickets. My wife and I bought the postseason package and will be in 301.

by rayweaver on Sep 19, 2008 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions

The Prices I put up were the retail figures they sent me

For season ticket holders they discount the LDS and LCS seats around 10-15% (For outfield seats, I pay what someone walking in off the street would pay for upper deack seats for example) No discounts for anyone for World Series Games (though you could make a very solid argument that the opportunity to pay retail for such a game is in fact a discount)

by GomesSweetGomes on Sep 20, 2008 6:54 AM EDT up reply actions

Rec'd

Because it is a damn good idea.

I can’t imagine that anyone will “lose” the lottery, because the Rays haven’t exactly publicized that opportunity. I’m prepared to go to both ALDS games (3rd if necessary) and the ALCS games, although World Series games may be pricey, but we’re also talking a month away, if not longer, so it may look more appetizing then.

by ReasonableDoubt on Sep 18, 2008 6:05 PM EDT reply actions

Alright I am registered and down for whatever

weekend would be best for me as I work til 5 and am coming from Orlando. Additionally, if anyone up here wants to carpool and split gas I am down. Tailgate would be an awesome idea as we can’t guarantee we’ll be sitting by each other, but we’ll still get to hang out. I’d also be down to hit up Ferg’s after the game for whoever is interested. I only see one problem how the f are we going to get fiddle cat to this game. He’s been here for the whole ride and needs a way to get in.

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.

by Sandy Kazmir on Sep 18, 2008 6:11 PM EDT reply actions

Fergs = good idea

My parents have a cat, but the lazy bastard hasn’t learned the fiddle yet.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 18, 2008 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions

That's ridiculous.

by R.J. Anderson on Sep 18, 2008 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions

He will learn, trust me, he will learn

by steve-o1285 on Sep 19, 2008 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

I've never been to Fergs

The only reason is because it’s ALWAYS crowded. I don’t know if this is a good/viable idea or not. If we went to Fergs, would we still tailgate too?

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions

He mentioned going after the game

I know it’s very crowded before. I’ve never been there after a game, but would try it.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 19, 2008 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions

Either way tailgating must happen

by steve-o1285 on Sep 19, 2008 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions

My Kidneys are already crying in pain.

I’m still young, but I’m also on the wrong side of 25. My Kidneys have already given me a nice f-u once, so I don’t know how heartily I’d participate in something like this.

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions

I'm not much of a drinker either

I just want to grill food and hang out.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 19, 2008 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions

And when I say grill food...

I mean other people grill food and I eat it.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 19, 2008 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions

I'm not much of a drinker either.

I only have 3 or 4 beers an hour for 3 or 4 hours straight seven days a week. That’s not a lot, right?

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

This is me

Boom. Outta Here.

by Ryan Gilliss on Sep 19, 2008 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions

reminds me of a Yogi Berra line

“That restaraunt is so busy no one goes there anymore”

by stpetelawyer on Sep 19, 2008 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions

What's wrong can't drink for 6-10 hours straight anymore?

PUSSSSSSYYYYY

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.

by Sandy Kazmir on Sep 19, 2008 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions

I have no gall bladder so I have all kinds of wierd issues

My liver has to work harder and I struggle eating eggs and drinking milk, both of which I used extensively as effective hangover remedies. I have to rely on cranberry juice or gatorade and aspirin which don’t work as good for me.

I can drink like a fish. I just hate hangovers.

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions

I couldn't do it I love well vodka too much

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.

by Sandy Kazmir on Sep 19, 2008 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions

great idea

I’m planning on flying in for the first two games we play…. just found out that one of the ALDS games will start on Thursday, Oct 2, whereas the other three series will start on Wednesday. After that, the schedule is the same for both. I guess the AL team with the best record gets to choose which start date they have. If we are the WC, looks like the first game will be on Sunday.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/schedule/ps.jsp
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080912&content_id=3461424&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

Whatever day, this is a great idea.

by Mulva on Sep 18, 2008 7:58 PM EDT reply actions

Obviously I won't be joining in

But if you do get a tailgate organized e-mail me a cell # so I can call in my best wishes. Or if you’re the WC and organize a group watch of first round away games against LA, same deal so I can harass you from Orange Co.

I’ll pull for you guys against against Chicago, definitely against Boston, but LA could be an issue – I used to be a ticket holder and my son-in-law’s a big fan – and my wife is from Minnesota so might have to go with them. Quietly though, because of NY’s playoff series with LA and to just get under some locals’ skin, I’ll probably pull for your guys vs. LA too.

by nyyfaninlaaland on Sep 19, 2008 2:54 AM EDT reply actions

If LA managed to make the WS I would be absolutely shocked.

They’re playing well right now, but not good enough to get past the Cubs IMO.

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions

LOL @ a baseball discussion being OT

We’ll see how this all breaks out and get back to you.

by kericr on Sep 19, 2008 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions

Late, but

I’m referring to the Angels – they say they’re from LA too you know. Hence the LAAland (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – guess it should be nyyfaninlaaaland) in the name.

by nyyfaninlaaland on Sep 24, 2008 11:35 PM EDT up reply actions

Normal people still refer to the Angels as being in Aneheim

It should be nyyfaninLAAOAland I guess.

by kericr on Sep 25, 2008 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions

REC

by Underdogs on Sep 19, 2008 6:29 AM EDT reply actions

So

If we play Boston in the ALCS, what do you think are the chances I’ll be able to get tickets to Fenway and train it up for a game?

heh

Vogt early, Vogt often.

by Brickhaus on Sep 19, 2008 6:38 PM EDT reply actions

There's a great chance you can get them. You just have to pay. They start at 260 a piece for the ALCS on Stubhub.

Tools Whore

Sign Bonds!

by Tyler on Sep 19, 2008 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions

I might try to do the same thing… Doubt I’ll have the money though.

by Kevin Gengler on Sep 19, 2008 11:48 PM EDT up reply actions

BIG TRUCK, BIG GRILL, WILL TRAVEL!

Box seats sound good, I’ll be at every playoff game regardless. Ferg’s is great before and after the game if there is no tailgating. For those who don’t drink bring your share, I do! Beer, or Booze, it’s all good!

Unless I’m not invited of course.

by John 63 on Sep 20, 2008 11:48 AM EDT reply actions

I was leaning more towards upper deck

Need to get a consensus preference on this. If the consensus is box seats, I can afford these as well. If we have too much indecisiveness, cheaper seats win out.

And of course you’re invited. Let’s use this subthread to figure out what everyone who is going can contribute. I can bring some food (hot dogs/buns) and beverages (regular and ’adult’).

by kericr on Sep 22, 2008 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions

I like to join this tailgate

I have to wait to see the schedule, will not be able to do Saturday’s games, but Friday looks good to me, I get off work at 3:30 and live just a few blocks north of the stadium. I did signup for the playoff lottery, will see what happens. Thanks-Mark

by poolshark8189 on Sep 21, 2008 1:41 AM EDT reply actions

Division/WC senarios

If the Rays win the division, then their 1st 2 home games are Wed or Thu, AND Friday. If they’re the WC, then it’s Sunday and Monday. I don’t know where I got Saturday from, there is no ALCS games on Saturday.

If they win the division, we’ll probably do this on Friday, and Sunday if they win the WC, unless a majority objects.

by kericr on Sep 22, 2008 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions

Check your Email

I got them, you call with the password they give you at a specific time, I will be in section 313 somewhere.

9=8

by raysbball on Sep 23, 2008 7:37 AM EDT up reply actions

I haven't gotten the e-mail.

Does that mean I lost the first round of sign-ups? I’m going either way, but my parents wanted more tickets for family members and whathaveyou.

by rglass44 on Sep 23, 2008 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions

Apparently having the "privilege" of winning the lottery...

…means you drop 6 bucks in service charges per ticket. Just dropped 127.25 on four outfield seats.

Who says we’re not a big league stadium?

by ReasonableDoubt on Sep 23, 2008 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions

Same here

I believe there is going to be another opportunity to get tickets, but it will involve fighting amonst the cretins tomorrow morning at 9AM. I am debating whether I wish to take a 1/2 day off tomorrow to go get tickets or try to get them by phone.

by kericr on Sep 23, 2008 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions

I missed out

I didn’t get the email, and I can not take off work tomorrow to buy tickets. Disappointment, I was at the first game and wanted to make the first playoff game. Mark

by poolshark8189 on Sep 23, 2008 10:53 AM EDT reply actions

My parents may have extras, I told them that I was going to try to sell them on here if they get extras

by rglass44 on Sep 23, 2008 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions

I just finished another e-mail exchange with my ticket rep

If you decide to go the season ticket route, you can only get as many playoff packages as you purchase season ticket deposits :(. Since I was going to buy season tickets anyway, this isn’t a huge deal for me, and I think I’m going to go this route and buy two deposits for next year in hopes that I don’t get saddled with a $300 bill for each seat in a 20-pack.

by kericr on Sep 23, 2008 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions

*$300 bill for a 20 pack would represent an approximate 110% increase over this year's ticket prices.

::shutter::

by kericr on Sep 23, 2008 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions

They has season tix this year

So, they get 2 per ticket for a total of 4. Any they get from the lottery will be used for friends/family/sale purposes.

by rglass44 on Sep 23, 2008 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions

Lucky bastahds

Good to see the Rays rewarding faithful season ticket holders with an extra pass.

by kericr on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions

Feasability time

OK, I’m going to act under the assumption that the Rays are going to win the division and we’re looking at doing this for game 2 which is on Friday. I anticipate that some who wanted to go to this didn’t get tickets which provides less incentive to come to the tailgate. Who is going to the game and would be able to attend a tailgate?

I am still in.

by kericr on Sep 23, 2008 10:18 PM EDT reply actions

IN

by rglass44 on Sep 24, 2008 1:23 AM EDT up reply actions

As long as it's not a stupid mid-day start time, I'm in. I've already cleared my calendar for the afternoon.

by ReasonableDoubt on Sep 24, 2008 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions

Will most likely be in

I didn’t win the lottery, but I will be visiting Stubhub.

by steve-o1285 on Sep 24, 2008 9:03 AM EDT up reply actions

Ok, I'm officially in

by steve-o1285 on Sep 24, 2008 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions

IN

I got two for the friday game, but really want to tailgate with a group. do you guys all know each other? im not on here that often. they cant do an afternoon start, horrible idea. i took off friday for this.

BOHICA

by Mr. Tonight TB on Sep 24, 2008 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions

So is Anaheim going to choose the Wednesday or Thursday game?

I’m really hoping Wednesday because I’m flying in early Friday.

by rglass44 on Sep 24, 2008 10:51 AM EDT reply actions

winner chooses

within 1 hour after clinching the best record… so we likely won’t know for a few more days

by Mulva on Sep 24, 2008 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions

I wish they'd hurry up and clinch then

So I can change my flight if needed.

by rglass44 on Sep 24, 2008 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions

I ended up scoring 8 tickets to game 1 and 4 to game 2. suffice to say ill be at the games

if you guys are partying ill swing by also. of course it depends on the game times. if we get shafted with the 5pm start on friday then ill be in quite a rush

by matthan on Sep 24, 2008 11:41 PM EDT reply actions

Just a question; I'm not looking to buy any of your tickets and this topic came up in the GDT yesterday

But are you using all of those tickets? Are you bringing seven others to game one and three others to game two, or are you taking advantage of the demand for these tickets and scalping them?

by kericr on Sep 25, 2008 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions

Im using all but possibly 2. I just bought the max I was able to buy and I’m selling them at face to friends. Basically I’m just making a deal, I’ll sell them tickets at face now if they sell me tickets at face when they win the lotto for future rounds. Basically I’m covering my butt so that I’ll be able to go to every game.

However, if I didn’t have friends that wanted to go and that would make that deal with me I would have zero problem selling them at a premium to most people. Look the Rays have maybe 15-20K core fans. Fans that go to tons of games. For example myself and some of the friends that are going with me have gone to 40-50+ home games this year. We deserve a crack at normal priced tickets way before some bandwagon fan does.

If all those “core” fans are able to go to the game at reasonable prices then I have NO problem with making those bandwagon fans that have gone to zero or one game this year pay an arm and a leg to go to these playoff games.

Good fans should be able to go at fair prices. It pisses me off when I see people that have gone to 40+ games this year have to pay triple face in order to go to a game. That is ridiculous.

Bandwagon fans and people that want to go because it is the “hip” thing to do should pay what the market is. If I don’t find any “real” fans that I know for my last two tickets I’ll end up selling them at a premium to the bandwagon crowd.

As I said my tickets are going to fans that have all gone to around 40+ games this year and it basically guarantees me tickets to all future games.

Although the golden rule to selling is to never sell to the opposing teams fans.

by matthan on Sep 25, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions

Although the golden rule to selling is to never sell to the opposing teams fans.

This.

by rglass44 on Sep 25, 2008 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions

My ticket selling order

1. Myself
2. Family-Free
3. Best friends-Free or Face
4. Girl I really like-Free
5. Good friends-Face
6. Hot girls-Face
7. Acquaintances that are huge Rays (or whatever team) fans (like folks on message boards etc)-Face
8. People with a couple degrees of separation that are huge fans-Slight Premium
9. People with a couple degrees of separation that are not big fans-Slightly under market
10. Total Random Strangers that are Rays fans-Market
11. Osama Bin Laden and Chavez-slightly over market
12. I’d rather burn the tickets
13. Casual Fans of the other team-One Kidney
14. hard core fans of the other team-they must sell their good looking daughter to me plus a kidney if I ever need it, but they will get my secret counterfeit ticket stash

by matthan on Sep 25, 2008 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions