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MLB Records Highest April Friday Attendance Since 2008

Pace-of-play reforms and thrilling games draw 35,284 fans per game, but attendance disparities and long-term trends remain uncertain.

Apr 18, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Fans watch a game between the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Major League Baseball's April 18, 2025 slate of 14 games averaged 35,284 fans per game, the highest for an April Friday without home openers since 2008.
  • New pace-of-play rules, including a pitch clock and larger bases, have shortened game times to an average of 2 hours and 36 minutes, boosting fan engagement.
  • Key games included the Cubs' dramatic 13-11 comeback over the Diamondbacks and Francisco Lindor's walk-off home run for the Mets at Citi Field.
  • Despite league-wide gains, attendance remains uneven, with low turnout reported in markets like Tampa Bay and Miami.
  • While the surge offers hope for MLB, questions linger about whether it reflects a sustainable recovery or a temporary spike.