Final answer:
The San Francisco Giants are in the maturity stage of the product life cycle, characterized by stable sales and extensive market penetration, focusing on maintaining their market position.
Step-by-step explanation:
The San Francisco Giants, having been an established baseball team since 1958, would be considered to be in the maturity stage of the product life cycle. This stage is characterized by a slowdown in sales growth because the product has achieved acceptance by most potential buyers. Sales are at their peak, but the increase rate slows down. The team enjoys a strong fan base, significant brand recognition, and stable revenue streams. Market saturation is also a factor, as most fans who are interested in baseball in the San Francisco area are likely already attending games or following the team.
Product life cycle stages are important for businesses to understand as they can dictate marketing strategies and product development. A team in the maturity stage, like the Giants, will focus on differentiation and maintaining their market share rather than attempting to attract an entirely new audience.
The San Francisco Giants are in the maturity stage of the product life cycle, signified by high but stabilized sales, extensive market penetration, and the need to maintain market share rather than grow it.