I’m betting most people don’t think in terms of risk-reward when they consider attending an out of town, minor league game on a weekend. To some extent I do. I couldn’t see an inherent benefit in driving to either Comstock Park, Michigan or Beloit Wisconsin this weekend. Neither option offered the sunshine and warm temperatures that I needed to draw me from Chicago.

Even though the West Michigan WhiteCaps have several dollar days lined up, the 410-mile round trip isn’t the incentive I need to face 40-degree weather. That’s not to say that I don’t love buckets of popcorn for $1 or a $1 lawn seat and believe they are attractive inducements for families hoping to see baseball. I think anything that makes a day at the ballpark more affordable is a good thing.

I don’t think any of the minor league teams that advertise Taco Tuesdays are doing so with a loss leader in mind. Restaurants and bars use this gimmick to lure in guest on slow days of the week. Bars and restaurants with no Mexican connection see the cheap taco as a filler to lure drinkers. Occasionally, Mexican restaurants or taquerias will do so to compete in stiffer markets. For example; there is a family-owned, taco-based operation in the northern suburbs (one that I favor). They have three locations and the oldest has a Taco Tuesday, the most expensive, sit-down operation offers a taco special on Wednesdays, and the third location has Taco Thursdays.

Operating on the risk/reward principle, I tried out a new restaurant last Tuesday, specifically because of the promotion. If it turned out to be lousy, I figured the investment wasn’t too steep. The tacos were quite good and now I’m looking forward to exploring the rest of the menu. Mission Accomplished.

Most people look for deals without realizing the actual cost. Eating two dozen tacos, but spending it all back on booze might not be the deal you thought it was. Likewise, I wasn’t going to spend 6 hours in a car to eat a $1 bucket of popcorn. Before the Snapper moved downtown, I attended several Sunday afternoon games because I could get 1/2 price seats and $2 beers. I also liked the minor league feel of the park.

In competitive bar/restaurant markets, it can be fun seeking out the better deals and scenes. If everything is within easy walking distance (neighborhoods surrounding ML ballparks) it can add to the afternoon/evening. In a past life, I spent far more time in Wrigleyville after Cubs games than I do now. While there may be more options per sq ft, I’m not sure there is much to differentiate them.

From a practical standpoint, I think the White Sox, Brewers and Reds do a nice job of reaching out to families. Ultimately, I think this approach is going to benefit the game more than onsite legalized sports betting.

Hopefully, the weather is nicer where you are and you can get out to a game today!