Speaking strictly in terms of the game of baseball, Cleveland puts itself ahead of the proverbial curve by inviting users of social media to engage in a designated area at Progressive Field.

Writes our good friend Scott over at Waiting for Next Year:

Two forces likely coming together allowed the team to get the proper approvals to roll out what they are calling the Tribe Social Deck, an actual physical wooden deck with two rows of stadium seating for 10, located in left field between the bleachers and the standing room only area. The primary reason is to engage with fans via social media, an audience that is widely overlooked when it comes to marketing by professional teams. Another reason, that some may even rank above the first, is that the Indians are likely going to experience a down season when it comes to attendance. Engaging said social media users is a way to add additional interest in a team that, quite frankly, has seen a strong decline in fan support with the success of the Cavaliers and relative invincibility of the Browns.

“We envision this area as sort of a press box for the social media users,” said Indians PR representative Rob Campbell.

It’s a great concept, but we are unclear as to who will actually get to enjoy the deck…is it open to the public in general or is the space reserved for those with a substantial online presence, like say WFNY?

We’ll follow up and see if we can get some answers.