Mets attendance is currently low primarily due to a combination of unmet expectations from the previous season and a subsequent quiet offseason that failed to re-energize the fan base.
Disappointing Performance in the Previous Season
The New York Mets are experiencing lower attendance figures at Citi Field largely because the team failed to deliver on massive expectations in the prior season. After a period of significant investment and high hopes, the team's performance did not meet the anticipation built around it. This outcome likely dampened fan enthusiasm and trust, leading to reduced interest in attending games.
Lack of High-Profile Offseason Signings
Following the disappointing season, the team's President of Baseball Operations, David Stearns, did not sign big-name free agents. While this strategic decision might not have been inherently negative for the team's long-term planning, it directly impacted fan engagement. Historically, acquiring star players can significantly energize the fan base and drive ticket sales. The absence of such impactful offseason additions meant there was less new excitement or renewed optimism to draw fans back to the ballpark.
These factors collectively contribute to the early struggles in Mets attendance, as fans may be less inclined to attend games without the renewed hope that big-name signings or a strong previous season can provide.