Dodgers' Digital-Only Tickets Spark Debate Over Tradition and Technology

An 81-year-old fan's struggle to attend games highlights the complexities of adapting to a digitizing world.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, abstract scene of a Dodgers baseball game, with players, stadium, and crowd broken down into overlapping shapes and planes of color.The digital ticketing policy of the Los Angeles Dodgers has fractured the traditional fan experience, creating a rift between the team and its loyal supporters.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Dodgers' decision to implement a strict digital-only ticketing policy has sparked a heated debate, particularly after an 81-year-old fan with a 50-year history of season tickets, Errol Segal, was denied paper tickets for the 2026 season. This story highlights the tension between tradition and progress, as well as the challenges of the digital divide, especially for older generations who may not be as tech-savvy.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' policy raises important questions about accessibility, inclusion, and the need to balance technological advancements with the needs of diverse fan bases. As society continues to digitize, this story serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges faced by those who may struggle to adapt to new technologies.

The details

Errol Segal, an 81-year-old Dodgers fan, has been a loyal season ticket holder for 50 years. However, the team's recent decision to implement a digital-only ticketing system has effectively barred Segal from attending games, as he lacks familiarity with computers and smartphones. Despite Segal's offer to pay extra for paper tickets, the Dodgers have maintained their strict policy, citing concerns over scalping and fraud.

  • Errol Segal has been a Dodgers season ticket holder for 50 years.
  • The Dodgers implemented their digital-only ticketing policy for the 2026 season.

The players

Errol Segal

An 81-year-old Dodgers fan with a 50-year history of season tickets.

Los Angeles Dodgers

A professional baseball team based in Los Angeles, California, valued at billions of dollars.

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What’s next

The Dodgers have stated that they will continue to evaluate their digital-only ticketing policy, but have not provided any specific timeline for potential changes or accommodations for fans like Errol Segal.

The takeaway

This story highlights the need for organizations to balance technological progress with the diverse needs of their customer base. As society becomes increasingly digitized, it is crucial to consider the impact on those who may struggle to adapt, and to find ways to ensure accessibility and inclusion for all.