| 17 February 2010
This isn't a shocker by any means, but the formerly sold out "Jim Beam Suites" are no longer sold out. In 2009, the Yankees claimed a wait list and such high demand that they didn't even let fans tour the seats before buying them. Today, they are available for sale on full season plans.
From the start, many fans who purchased multi-year Jim Beam Suite leases were unimpressed. There were reports of obstructed views, and the "exclusive" Jim Beam Lounge became known as something of a glorified food court. Even worse, the prices began at $100 per ticket, and the "suites" were only a few rows in front of Grandstand seats that cost $25. Very quickly, fans realized that padded seats, a food court and a private bathroom weren't worth the premium.
Heading into the offseason, some fans wondered if the Yankees would let disgruntled Jim Beam Suite licensees out of their leases. There are obviously those who have backed out of their contract (evidenced by ticket availability), but the Yankees aren't just rolling over. Here is one fan's account of trying to get out of his lease:
While I wouldn't say I tried to cancel my Jim Beam seats, I had not submitted payment as of last Friday. It was then that I received an e-mail from the VP of Legal Affairs telling me that if I did not submit payment in full by Friday, 2/5 that they would initiate legal action against me.
According to other reports, the ticket office is claiming plenty of availability in $100, $115 and $135 Jim Beam Suites.
While we love the view from these seats, we wouldn't recommend buying them unless you can get them on a partial plan, or for considerably less money. Until then, you can put Grandstand seats in section 420a and laugh at the suckers a few rows in front of you paying at least quadruple the price.
