How do scalpers for bad teams make money?

[RivaLiva]

I have always wondered this question. I grew up a Cleveland through the 90's and have seen my share of bad teams. Whenever my Dad and I would walk to the stadium from our parking lot every block it seems like people are selling tickets or asking for tickets. I didn't realize until last year that many of them are co-workers and that they all know each other.
I am not living in Cincy who is going through a baseball slump. My main question is how does a scalper for a team like the Cincinnati Reds make money? Some of the gates are pretty decent but when they attract 20K to a game there are plenty of decent seat available.

Why would I pay more with a scalper when I can buy a better, even or maybe worse seat then at the window?

I know the point is when the team gets good agian it's going to be a hot ticket, but when a team is a celler dweller what happens? And there are still plenty of people out selling even though they are doing so bad.