MLB Clubs Signing Naming-Rights Deals For Sections At Ballparks

The Dodgers, Mets and Royals are among MLB clubs that have "forged naming-rights deals for certain sections of their ballparks this season" to combat the economic downturn, according to Michael McCarthy of USA TODAY. The Dodgers for six games this season at Dodger Stadium will "create a section themed around upcoming films" from Warner Bros., beginning with "Terminator Salvation." The Mets have partnered with PepsiCo for the "Pepsi Porch" overhanging right field at Citi Field, and Mets Exec VP/Business Operations Dave Howard said that the landing marks the team's "first branded seating section." The Royals at Kauffman Stadium are "offering $7 'Dri Duck Fountain Seats' in left-field sections," which "often come with free gear courtesy" of Kansas-based outdoor apparel company Dri Duck. McCarthy notes the new sections join efforts from recent seasons, including snacks retailer ampm's all-you-can-eat sections at Dodger Stadium and Progressive Field, as well as the "Coca-Cola Corner" at Fenway Park and the "Bud Light Bleachers" at Wrigley Field. But watchdog group Commercial Alert indicated that these sections "amount to product placement run amok." Commercial Alert Managing Dir Robert Weissman: "This crosses the line. People should be able to sit in their chair without being part of an advertisement" (USA TODAY, 5/1). 

Writer Says Mannywood Shows How Firmly Dodgers Have Latched Onto Ramirez

WEST COAST CUSTOM: In L.A., Kurt Streeter writes there is a "deeper meaning" behind the "Mannywood" section near the leftfield foul pole at Dodger Stadium in honor of Dodgers LF Manny Ramirez. The section, "along with marketing efforts such as Ramirez's smiling mug affixed to billboards all over the megalopolis, show just how firmly the Dodgers have latched themselves onto the city's newest big thing." Ramirez is "already right up there" with Lakers G Kobe Bryant (L.A. TIMES, 5/1). Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service plans to designate Dodger Stadium and the associated property, which the L.A. City Council in October designated as "Dodgertown," with a new signature zip code, 90090. The unveiling will take place at the ballpark on Saturday, June 6 (Dodgers).