In Cincinnati, Steve Watkins reported the Reds have "already added a sponsor to the prestigious" $1M-plus sponsorship roster next season, "using their hosting role for the 2015 All-Star Game as an incentive." The deal means the team "now has five corporate sponsors at that level," totaling $7M. Next year's ASG is "playing a big role in sponsorship growth" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 9/23).
BELTWAY BOOM: ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick noted the Orioles' merchandise sales this September "are up +854 percent over the corresponding period last year." Last Tuesday's AL East clincher "drew a record 11.6 rating on MASN -- the highest-rated Orioles game" on the net since at least '02. Meanwhile, the Nationals' merchandise sales this September "are up +531 percent over the corresponding period last year" (ESPN.com, 9/23).
FITTING THE BILL: In Buffalo, Scott Scanlon noted the Bills are staging a regional competition called the Independent Health & Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge, and will award the grand-prize winner "airfare, accommodations and two tickets to the Super Bowl on Feb. 1 in Phoenix." The competition is "open to all Western New Yorkers age 18 and older," and will run Oct. 6-Nov. 16. Winners "can pile up points by taking steps toward better health" (BUFFALO NEWS, 9/24).
