ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Minor League Baseball clubs attracted nearly 7.9 million fans last month, raising the industry's season total to 21,453,678 through June. This season's total figure represents an increase of 943,704 fans over last year's total, entering July.

"Minor League Baseball's increase in year-to-date attendance is significant, given the fact our country continues to battle a sluggish economy and mixed messages about its recovery," said Minor League Baseball president, Pat O'Conner.

"Through it all, our teams and our fans continue to enjoy America's Pastime in impressive numbers. The attendance through the end of June confirms the real value of our product in the eyes of our fans."

Eleven of the 15 leagues experienced increases at the gate through last month, compared to 2009. The 176 clubs that charge admission averaged 3,963 fans a game in 5,413 openings through June.