Romano: Trop May Be Empty This Summer

Columnist John Romano writes today, "It could get mighty quiet in the Trop this summer" {link to Times' site}:

The kids are out of school, the Rays are usually in contention and the thought of spending a hot, muggy night inside an air-conditioned big-league stadium sounds wondrous.

But what happens when you remove the part about the Rays being in contention?

In other words, should you be concerned that Tampa Bay's notoriously underwhelming attendance figures are going to get even uglier now that the Rays are sinking on the field?

The short answer?

Yes, but don't panic.

(At least not for now.)

Romano explains how the Rays enjoyed second-half attendance bumps in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012 (I haven't fact-checked those numbers), but shouldn't expect one this year if they don't go on a crazy winning streak.

He probably has a point - but it also doesn't change the fact that the Rays will continue to profit, the team's value will continue to grow, and the best front office in baseball will likely have the team in contention again very soon.

UPDATE: The Tampa Bay Baseball Market blog has responded with some criticisms - and facts - of its own.