Mariners, Safeco Insurance won’t extend ballpark naming rights deal

Safeco Field will have a new name after the 2018 season.

The Mariners announced on Tuesday that the organization and Safeco Insurance will not extend their naming rights agreement for the ballpark beyond the 2018 season, when the original 20-year deal expires.

In their press release, the Mariners called it a “successful 20-year agreement” with the Boston-based insurance company. The press release noted that the organization has begun preliminary discussions with potential partners on a new naming rights deal.

Safeco Field has been the ballpark’s name since it opened in 1999.

Mariners president and CEO Kevin Mather said in the press release, “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.”

Said Safeco Insurance president Tyler Asher: “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 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.”