The other thing I’d point out is that the whole experience of watching a major sports event in many cities is a hassle. A friend of mine was recently offered two free tickets — with a combined face value over $400 — to see his favorite MLB team. He couldn’t be bothered.
MLB teams are located in or near major downtown centers inside big cities. Those same big cities refuse to prosecute/inprison monsters who roam their streets. You come out of a game at 10 PM and have to run the gauntlet getting to your vehicle UNARMED.
No thanks.