Promotions Helping 'Ring' In New Rangers Season

ARLINGTON (CBSDFW.COM) - Jeff Koerner of Dallas says a souvenir is what brought him to Monday night's game. "Yeah, it's because of the ring, and to see the giant scoreboard."

Koerner and his wife Kimberly specifically made their first trip of the season to Rangers Ballpark in Arlington Monday because of the team's replica American League Champion ring.  "Getting something like that is fun, even though you know it's not a real ring, it's still something exciting for the fans to have."

The Koerners joked that it will go well in their guest room, which they say is Rangers-themed.  "It's perfect for us."

They didn't even mind the weather - the game time temperature was 62 and windy - "It's a little cold, but the atmosphere is electric."

Other fans also came out for the $4 ticket offer the Rangers were offering since it was April 4.  "It's always fun, and $4 is worth it" said Fort Worth college student Art Armstrong, who didn't get one of the rings because of the popularity, but instead received a voucher to pick one up at any game after May 1.  Armstrong says he comes to a few games a year, and the promotions aren't the only thing that draws him.  "Cheap tickets work, it's not just team-based what games I'll come to."

He does say that the tickets and how well the Rangers have been doing has certainly helped fans.  "It's much more exciting now, everyone is getting more pumped up."

Koerner agrees.  "Texas sports fans get excited when something big happens, and right now the Rangers are big."

Massage Therapist Jason Micheals of Rowlett bought his tickets for Monday night through a broker website.  He wanted to get good seats behind home plate, and wound up on the club level.  Even though he didn't get a ring either, he was still having fun at Monday's game.  "I might have to just go get a real one," he joked.

Michaels says he tries to go to at least two games a month during the season, and has a plan for what games he'll go to this year.  "I want to see the Marlins and the Mets this year.  I've seen all the American League teams, now I'm trying to see all of the National League teams that come to town."

Michaels, who was also at the ballpark for Sunday's game against the Red Sox, says he too has been impressed by the new found fan support.  "You have to stand in line at the gift shop now.  It's amazing that everyone is wearing Rangers gear and not afraid to wear it anymore."

"It's great to be a fan right now." he added.

The Rangers have many other promotions planned this season, including a football, oven mitts and a Nelson Cruz bobblehead doll.  To see a full list, check out promotions section of the Rangers website.