Mariners to have 1st major league stadium with LED lights

SEATTLE (AP) Playing baseball in Seattle just became more energy efficient, after the Mariners announced they have become the first major league team to install LED lights to illuminate the playing field.

The Mariners announced the lighting change Tuesday. The replacement of the previous metal halide fixtures was completed this month and the new stadium lighting will be in use during the club's annual FanFest this weekend.

Major League Baseball supported Seattle's lighting transition and the club estimates 60 to 70 percent less energy consumption for lighting Safeco Field by making the switch.

Safeco Field is not the first stadium to go the LED route. NRG Stadium in Houston, University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, and Staples Center in Los Angeles are among other venues that have made the switch.