Fans can now drink for longer during Royals games, thanks to the MLB’s new pitch clock
The MLB’s pitch clock has changed the strategies of batters and pitchers, and now it’s changing concession stand strategies.
The Kansas City Royals announced that they’re extending their sales of beer at home games. Fans can now buy beer through the bottom of the eighth inning at any general concession stand.
In past seasons, fans could only buy beer through the bottom of the seventh inning.
A spokesperson for the Royals said the team is reserving the right to evaluate this protocol at any time and make any necessary changes.
The change doesn’t impact Royals’ Craft & Draft, Diamond Club, outdoor patio and other premium seating sections. The team said these areas will continue to serve alcohol up to 30 minutes after the conclusion of each game.
Other teams have also extended beer sales at their ballparks. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins and Milwaukee Brewers are teams that now serve beer through the bottom of the eighth inning, according to the Associated Press.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said the pitch clock is designed to give games a “better pace.” Under the new rule, pitchers must start the throwing motion within 15 seconds of each pitch when the bases are empty and 20 seconds when there are runners on base.
