Safeco Field Will Change Its Name In 2018, Mariners Say

SEATTLE, WA - The Mariners and Safeco Insurance announced on Tuesday that the two entities would not renew a naming rights contract when it expires next season. That means, beginning in 2018, Safeco Field won't be Safeco Field anymore. The team and the company each released statements about the change Tuesday:

"Safeco Insurance has been a great partner of the Mariners dating back to the earliest days of the franchise, including the ballpark naming rights for the last 20 years. We appreciate everything Safeco has done over the years to support our organization and look forward to continuing the relationship in the future,” Mariners President Kevin Mather said.

“It has been an honor to host the naming rights for the last 20 years and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the Mariners. While our marketing approach is changing, we intend to remain active partners with the organization for years to come,” Safeco Insurance President Tyler Asher said. “Safeco and our parent company Liberty Mutual are committed to our presence in the Seattle community, by providing jobs to thousands of people in the region and supporting non-profits that help make Seattle one of the finest and exciting cities in the U.S. and across the globe.”

The Mariners have entered into talks with other companies over naming rights, but did not specify which ones.

The Safeco announcement comes about one month after CenturyLink signed an extension to 2033 for CenturyLink Field naming rights.

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