First Data Field (MLB.com)

Have you ever accidentally entered the wrong room before? That’s how Mets players must have felt today as they arrived at their spring stadium in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Say goodbye to Tradition Field, the name at least. Mets executives announced that the stadium will now be called First Data Field. The company First Data has a 10-year deal with the team, effective immediately.

httpss://twitter.com/Mets/status/834783264669831168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

First Data is a global leader in commerce-enabling technology and solutions, serving approximately six million business locations and 4,000 financial institutions in more than 100 countries around the world. If you are familiar with the name, you shouldn’t be so surprised. First Data has been the sponsor of the “Veteran of the Game” segment during every Mets home game.

In a press release earlier today, Mets COO Jeff Wilpon stated:

“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. 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.”

First Data Field seats 7,000 fans. It was built in 1988 when the team moved to Port St. Lucie. Originally named Thomas J. White Stadium until 2004, Tradition Field became the name of it from 2004-2010, and then returned after a brief hiatus in 2013. It will continue to serve as the summer home of the Advanced-A minor league affiliate of the Mets, the St. Lucie Mets.

A new deal with the St. Lucie County Commissioners gave the Mets the rights to stay in Port St. Lucie for another 25 years. Renovations are bound to be made, and a new stadium name is the first step. Attractions outside of the stadium and new features inside could be next.

While it is not as “sexy” of a name as Tradition Field, it is still a lucrative deal with a well known organization. As time goes on, changes like this happen. It’s just business as usual for the New York Mets.