Some people are concerned that extending beer sales at Major League Baseball (MLB) games could lead to more incidents of drunk driving, as fans will be able to buy alcohol later in the game.
Several MLB teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers, and Minnesota Twins, have decided to sell beer through the eighth inning this season. This change is in response to new pitch clock rules that have shortened game times by about 30 minutes. Traditionally, beer sales ended after the seventh inning.
The Diamondbacks stated they are treating the change as a trial and will monitor both sales and game pace. They emphasized their ongoing commitment to promoting designated drivers and responsible alcohol consumption.
Rick Schlesinger, the Milwaukee Brewers’ business operations president, described the move as experimental and noted that although sales are extended, the actual time fans can purchase beer remains similar due to faster games. He stressed the importance of fan safety and behavior.
However, some have criticized the move. Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm said on a podcast that prioritizing profit over fan safety is unwise, warning that it could increase the risk of drunk driving after games.
Tess Rowland, president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, echoed those concerns, pointing to alarming statistics showing that drunk driving deaths have risen, with a fatality occurring every 39 minutes in the U.S.
Reactions from fans outside Arizona’s Chase Field were mixed. Some continue to follow the old seventh-inning cutoff out of habit, while others, like fan Ryan Green, welcomed the change and emphasized personal responsibility, noting he doesn’t drive to games.
Pedal cab operator Tim Tylitizki, who transports fans to and from games, expressed his support for any measure that can reduce traffic fatalities. The Diamondbacks also offer complimentary non-alcoholic drinks to fans over 21 who volunteer as designated drivers.
