Sep 12, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks president Derrick Hall looks on prior to the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
The Arizona Diamondbacks may have finished in the lower half of the Major League Baseball standings on the field. However, off the field the D-backs were big winners. ESPN the Magazine ranked them as the ninth-best franchise out the 122 professional teams across the four major sports. They were ranked number two in Major League Baseball.
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As the D-backs organization explains in its press release, “The rankings are based off results from fan surveys and financial analysis and focus on eight categories, including fan relations, affordability, ‘bang for the buck,’ stadium experience, players, ownership, title track and coaching”. This marks the second time in three seasons Arizona has ranked in the top ten. Last year, ESPN tabbed them at number 30.
The organization’s solid reputation is found elsewhere. According to Team Marketing Report’s Cost Index, Arizona has been named most affordable for families for nine consecutive years. Ranking Arizona named the club as the #1 place to work for earlier in 2015. Since their inaugural season in 1998, the franchise has spent $45 million dollars in charitable giving within their community. Says D-backs’ President and CEO Derrick Hall:
"It is an incredible honor to consistently be ranked among the top franchises in sports. I am particularly proud because this not only represents success on the field but off the field as well and we have great momentum heading into the 2016 season."
If their play on the field in 2016 matches their reputation as a first-class organization off it, then the team will be National League West champions. Hats off to Mr. Hall and everyone who makes the Arizona Diamondbacks a first-rate franchise.