Mariners FanFest Draws Record Crowds

Despite the thousands of fans here, it never really felt crowded. Credit: Dan Hughes

The combination of unseasonably warm and sunny weather, coupled with fans’ desire to see somebody named Cano, led to record crowds at Mariners FanFest this past weekend.

After breaking the single-day attendance record on Saturday by drawing in 10,903, an additional 10,116 came in on Sunday to give the event a record 21,019 fans. Breaking the previous record set last year of 17,952.

CHECK OUT OUR PHOTO GALLERY FROM SATURDAY

Robinson Cano was probably the main attraction, but several other players, past, present and future were in attendance to get fans excited about the 2014 season.

Ken Griffey Sr. even made a brief appearance in the photo op area – where there is no schedule of who will be there or when. We just missed seeing him but the excitement surrounding his appearance was fun to witness.

Taijuan Walker waiting for an elevator.

Players signed autographs, took part in fan-led interviews atop the dugout and were often caught near the clubhouse walking from event to event.

Fans were able to play catch in the outfield, run the bases, launch baseballs over the outfield wall, get a taste of Safeco concessions and test their bats against a simulated Felix Hernandez.

Of course, Spring Training is just around the corner. Pitchers and catchers report to Peoria, Ariz., on Feb. 12, and the full squad will be in camp on Feb. 18.