Despite being one of the most valuable and successful teams in Major League Baseball, the New York Yankees are facing criticism for their policy of requiring players to pay for in-flight Wi-Fi. Despite their estimated worth of $6 billion, the team reportedly does not provide complimentary internet access to its players during team flights.
Sports Illustrated’s recent report revealed that the New York Yankees and small-market Cincinnati Reds are the only teams in the league that do not offer complimentary internet access during team flights. This revelation has left players across the league questioning the Yankees’ decision not to provide free Wi-Fi to their team members.
Players are required to pay $9 for access to Delta’s in-flight Wi-Fi on every flight if they wish to use the internet, as per the policy. While some players do not mind paying for the service, others have discovered ways to bypass this policy.
New York Yankees player keep paying ‘wifi tax’ despite being part of a $6 billion franchise
Former Yankees pitcher Jameson Taillon stated that he would not pay for internet access based on principle. “I should also mention that the Yankees travel on a custom plane with poker tables and other amenities. If I’m being honest, I would choose that over free Wi-Fi,” Taillon explained.
Fortunately for the Yankees, there may be a solution to their Wi-Fi policy in the near future. According to a recent report by CNBC Make It, Delta Air Lines plans to offer free Wi-Fi to all passengers by the end of 2024. By the end of 2023, over 700 Delta aircraft will be outfitted with top-notch in-flight connectivity, with all international and regional planes providing free internet access by the end of 2024.
The New York Yankees’ decision to charge their players for in-flight Wi-Fi has led to questions about the team’s priorities. Given the team’s $6 billion valuation and a payroll of around $270 million, it’s difficult to comprehend why they would prioritize saving money on something as seemingly trivial as internet access during flights.
The policy becomes even more puzzling given that the team’s players are frequently away from their families for extended periods during the season. Providing free Wi-Fi on flights could be a small but significant means of aiding players in remaining in touch with their loved ones while traveling.
In case you missed it:
Alex Rodriguez’s bid to buy Minnesota Timberwolves boosted by $250M bank shot
