The New York Mets spring training facility and the home to their Class-A affiliate the St. Lucie Mets has changed it’s name to First Data Field. The complex formerly known as Tradition Field, also serves as the home for the GCL Mets of the Gulf Coast League.
A new 10-year deal with First Data was announced by the Mets. First Data is a global payment technologies solutions company from Atlanta, Georgia.
“It is an exciting time for our organization to have a world-wide leader in their field such as First Data to be our new naming rights partner,” said Mets COO Jeff Wilpon.
“First Data is going to be a terrific partner of ours for years to come and we are thrilled to have their name on our stadium. All parties look forward to providing a great environment for Mets fans and the community.”
“We are proud to expand our partnership with the Mets, a world-class organization committed to winning on the diamond and providing an outstanding fan experience in the stands, whether at Citi Field or at First Data Field,” said Frank Bisignano, First Data Chairman and CEO.
“While we root for the Mets under the Florida sun, our payments technology will help to power commerce for the Mets and their legion of fans.”
First Data is one of the world’s leading commerce technology companies, powering more than two trillion dollars in payment transactions for six million business locations and 4,000 financial institutions around the world.
Last season, First Data sponsored the “Veteran of the Game” at each Mets home game. As part of that program, a Mets player presented the selected veteran with an American flag that had flown over Citi Field.
First Data Field seats 7,000 fans. It was built in 1988 when the Mets moved their spring training operation to Port St. Lucie. The stadium was named Thomas J. White Stadium up until 2004 when Tradition acquired the naming rights for its first time. Tradition reacquired the naming rights in 2013.
First Data Field will host 18 spring training games in 2017. Opening Day is February 25th vs. the Washington Nationals.
(Photo Credit: Wayne Randazzo, Jim F.)
