A’s Ban Smoking in the Stands

OAKLAND — Fans of the Oakland Athletics who feel burned by the team’s World Series performance may get really fired up about a new ban on smoking in outdoor seats at the Oakland Coliseum.

The A’s announced the ban Tuesday, saying it will make the ballpark a better place to watch baseball.

“We have received letters from nonsmoking fans in the past, but this was a proactive decision to keep the Coliseum environment one of the better ones in which to watch a ball game,” said Andy Dolich, vice president of business operations for the A’s.

One season-ticket holder called cigarette smoke a “part of the ambience of night games.”

But Dolich said starting next year anyone who lights up during an A’s game will receive a warning from an usher and a printed card detailing designated smoking areas. Militant smokers will be subject to removal.