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Business Experts: Mets' Success Means Good Things For The Future

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- As the Mets host their first home playoff game since 2006 on Monday night, the team is looking to cash in on its success.

Weighed down by massive losses in the Bernie Madoff scandal and frugal spending in recent years, the Mets endured an eight-year postseason drought.

But now the Amazin's are riding high, having won the National League East title and setting their sights on their first pennant in 15 years.

"I think it is the tide that lifts the Mets' boats finally in a way that they've been waiting for and also needed," said Robert Boland, who teaches sports business at Ohio University.

Boland told WCBS 880's Peter Haskell the business benefits are more than just about selling tickets.

"It certainly makes every renewable deal they have and every available deal they have in terms of sponsors and tickets more valuable," he said.

Former Texas Rangers president Michael Cramer, who runs the sports media program at the University of Texas, said this season was a "needed shot in the arm for the Mets as a franchise."

"I think from a marketing standpoint, there's something to market, especially if they do well this year" in the playoffs, he said.

"I think they can increase their sponsorships, give themselves a little bit more money to spend and get out there to be as competitive as they can," Cramer said.

During the offseason, the Mets' ownership will need to prove its commitment to winning, he added.

"I think you've got to demonstrate that you're willing to spend and win, and that gains the confidence of the fans," he said.

The Mets and Dodgers are tied a game apiece in their National League Division Series. The first pitch of Game 3 is scheduled for 8:37 p.m.

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