MARAUDERS SET FRANCHISE RECORDS FOR OVERALL ATTENDANCE AND AVERAGE ATTENDANCE

Bradenton, Fla. - The Bradenton Marauders set franchise attendance records for overall attendance and average attendance in 2013. 109,845 fans attended Marauders games this season, an average of 1,772 per game in the fourth season of Florida State League baseball at McKechnie Field.

The total attendance mark eclipsed the previous record of 103,978 (69 openings) set in 2011, despite seven fewer openings. The average attendance at McKechnie Field this summer surpassed the prior high mark of 1,515 per game, set last season. Doubleheaders are counted as a single attendance figure, giving the Marauders 62 openings this season.

"The support of our fans this season has been tremendous," Pittsburgh Pirates Senior Director of Florida Operation Trevor Gooby said. "We were able to achieve these records because of our dedicated fans that have been coming to Marauders games since 2010, and many more that took in a game for the first time this year. We look forward to seeing them all back at McKechnie Field in 2014."

McKechnie Field underwent a $10 million renovation following the 2012 season. The 90-year-old ballpark gained many new fan amenities, while still maintaining the integrity of its classic appearance and atmosphere. The outfield boardwalk, new seats, an expanded fan plaza, new concessions facilities, and two new bars were among the many improvements made during the project.

The successful Marauders season follows up a record-setting Spring Training for the Marauders' parent club, the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates set records for overall attendance, average attendance, and single game attendance this spring.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031 or visit www.BradentonMarauders.com.