Mariners FanFest takes hiatus to protect field

SEATTLE -- After a 19-year run with growing attendance and popularity, Mariners FanFest will take a one-year hiatus this offseason to avoid any problems with the newly installed playing surface at Safeco Field.
The two-day event, which is usually held shortly before the start of Spring Training, will return in January 2019.
New infield and outfield grass was put in last month as the entire playing surface was redone for the first time in the stadium's history.
"FanFest is predicated on our fans, especially our young fans, being able to take the field, run the bases, hit a home run and play catch in the outfield," said team president Kevin Mather. "While disappointing, we felt a one-year break in FanFest was a better option than having an event that didn't provide the full experience our fans deserve."
The Mariners still plan to bring manager Scott Servais and some players to the Seattle area in January for several appearances and public events.
The annual Mariners Caravan will visit 19 cities around the Northwest from Jan. 8-26, with players, broadcasters and staff visiting schools and holding autograph sessions at various stops.
Last year's FanFest drew 22,730 fans, which was second to the record attendance of 25,290 in 2015.