Giants STM Experience
Finally, I've found the time to share my fantastic experience as a Giants Season Ticket Member (STM). To be honest, I was feeling a bit anxious about missing the opportunity to write about it with the season drawing to a close.
I've been a Giants fan since 2007, but I never considered getting a season ticket membership. I always thought it meant committing to a dedicated seat for the entire season. However, a phone call from the Giants marketing team introduced me to the Flex Membership. This membership allows you to add credit before the season starts and use it to select and purchase seats as needed. The available seating options (area) are based on your credit level: $499, $999, $1,999, or $4,999. Living in Palo Alto and working in Redwood City means it takes me 40 minutes to over an hour to get to the ballpark, making it impractical to attend every game. The Flex Membership seemed like the perfect solution, so I decided to try the Plus ($999) membership. And I cannot satisfied with it more.
I discovered that being an STM comes with numerous benefits. My favorite was the 20% discount on all food and beverages at the ballpark concessions. This allowed me to indulge in various culinary options while alleviating my budget pressure. The Crazy Crab Sandwich quickly became my all-time favorite, and it was fantastic to enjoy a slice of Tony's Pepperoni Pizza for just $10.
However, the highlight of the STM experience was various events.
Catch on the field
We were invited to another exclusive event where my family and I had the opportunity to play catchball on the field after the game. It was my first time setting foot on a major league field, and the outfield turf was the most immaculate lawn I had ever seen. I also got a close look at the dirt on the warning track for the first time; I had assumed it would be fine soil, but it turned out to be tiny gravel of various sizes. We had a delightful time on the beautiful field, with the staff providing water bottles and ice creams. It was a wonderful experience that made me feel truly appreciated as a fan.
Triples Alley
Triples Alley is a private party venue at Oracle Park. I'm not sure of the origin of its name; I suspect it's because any ball that comes to this area would likely result in a triple. I was invited to a welcome party for new Season Ticket Members held there, which started two hours before the game. The event included complimentary food and beverages (including beer and wine), and I received a bag of gifts. We also had the chance to watch the visiting team's batting practice from the warning track (protected by nets and fences). I was astonished by the power of the balls hitting the fences, as the impact was that I had never imagined.
Summer Time Celebration
The event took place on the final day of Season Ticket Member Appreciation Week. Many fans were invited onto the field after the game for a grand picnic event. This was my second time on the field, but unlike the previous catch-ball event, this time, we could simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Food, snacks, and beverages were provided in abundance, allowing us to savor the experience fully. It was a perfect way to end the week and a testament to how much the team values its fans.
415 Experience
The 415 Membership is another Giants membership program. Normally costing $199 per year, Season Ticket Members can add it for a discounted price of $49. This membership allows early entry into the ballpark, 30 minutes before the general gates open, and grants access to the 415 seating area, located directly above the visiting team's bullpen. It brings back memories of the days around 2008 when the bullpen was in the foul area, and we would playfully taunt the visiting pitchers. The 415 zone also features numerous attractions, including games, bars, and more. Additionally, I received several exclusive gifts for 415 members, which was an unexpected delight.
Those are the highlights of my first STM experience this season. With the season now almost two-thirds complete, we find ourselves trailing the wild card spot by 4.5 games. While it may be challenging to call it a great season, there are glimmers of hope; the starting rotation has strengthened with the return of Ray and Snell. Despite losing Jung-Hoo, we've seen promising potential from young players like Fitzgerald. I'm optimistic that next season will be our best in years, and I’m definitely planning to renew my STM membership. Go Giants!