The Cardinals, coming off their worst-rated season for local telecasts, hit a 23-year low on Thursday afternoon for their home opener.
Bally ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ Midwest’s airing of the game, in which the Cards beat Miami 8-5, was seen in 7.5% of homes in the market. That’s the lowest figure for a Cards home opener since the 2001 contest drew a 7.2 rating and is significantly below the 10.6 figure from last season. The numbers are according to Nielsen, which tabulates viewership.
Thursday’s production, including the pregame festivities, was seen in an average of 91,000 households and viewed by 167,000 people. That’s a substantial drop from last year’s home opener, which averaged 133,000 households and 236,000 viewers.
But there are extenuating circumstances. Last year’s home opener also was the Cardinals’ season opener, whereas this year the team had played seven road games before being at home. Also, the current club is coming off its worst season in decades, likely lowering fans’ expectations and interest level until the team shows it is back on track.
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The season opener, on March 28 in Los Angeles, was seen in 4.2% of the market. That is below the rating BSM averaged last year for its Cardinals telecasts, 5.2, which is the lowest full-season figure on record.