ESPN released it’s annual Ultimate Franchise Rankings, you know where they poll fans and take into account ticket prices, chances of winning and a host of other factors. Here is a link to the methodology for determining the list. The Indians have been near the top of this list for awhile, but find themselves falling out of favor. In fact, the Cavaliers surged ahead to #5 on the list (#1 was the Angels) after finishing 49th last year. The team garnered high marks for players, ownership and stadium experience.
The Blue Jackets finished 31st in the poll, and sadly they were the next closest of all the teams we cover here at WFNY. I suppose it makes sense. None of the others are playoff material. Congrats Jackets! The Blue Jackets scored for coaching as well as fan relations and stadium experience.
The Indians plummeted from 16 last season all the way down to number 67. The biggest reason for the regression? How about coaching? No really, they were ranked 101 out of 122 from among the four major sports. Ouch. That’s ok Wedge, you can still go home and polish that Manager of the Year trophy.
And last (but not dead last) are the beloved Cleveland Browns. Out of 122 franchises, we can boast that they are better than 7 of them. Go us! here’s what ESPN had to say about the Browns’ situation-
Cleveland’s position in the Standings has cratered like the Dow (down from 64 in 2008), and you don’t need Ben Bernanke to explain why. Last season opened with a healthy QB controversy laced with AFC North division hopes and ended without an offensive TD in the final six games and a cellar view of the Steel City decorating its other thumb. “The Dawg Pound has been chomping at the bit for a championship, but they have been patient,” says Steve DiMatteo of Dawg Pound Daily. “It is the fans’ greatest virtue, but it is surely being tested.” For one thing, Steve and his crew are tired of being fed poor management. They’re ready for some front office accountability. Cheaper single-game tickets (average price $54.41, second-lowest in the league) would be a good start. But the cost of mediocrity isn’t all that has them barking. “Randy Lerner rushed to hire a head coach [Eric Mangini] that no other team was even interested in interviewing, then let that coach pick his own GM,” says Jeff of DPD. “That does not inspire confidence.” Ask Bernanke what it means for business when consumer confidence is low.
Yep.