Louisville Slugger yesterday announced that it will retire the P72 model bat that Yankees SS Derek Jeter has used his entire career out of "respect and admiration" for him. In N.Y., Justin Tasch notes retiring a bat is something the company "has never done in its 130 years." Players "will still be able to order bats with the P72’s specifications," but it will be "named in Jeter’s honor." The bat "will now feature the model number DJ2" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 9/25).
SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP: In Boston, Jill Radsken writes the timing of the Patriots Style Lounge, a pop-up boutique selling team gear aimed at women, "felt a bit odd" given the "controversies that have swirled around the NFL in recent weeks." But the Sept. 20-21 event featuring "the latest in Pats' womenswear" was planned "months ago." The NFL "has hosted Style Lounges in different cities for three seasons." Last month it was S.F., and others "are planned for Miami, Tampa, Seattle, and Charlotte" (BOSTON GLOBE, 9/25).
MEET THE NEW GUY: In Jacksonville, Ryan O'Halloran reported Jaguars QB Blake Bortles' No. 5 jersey "has climbed from No. 80 to No. 44" this week among NFL jersey sales at Dick's Sporting Goods. Bortles made his NFL debut Sunday against the Colts, and his jersey is "No. 5 among rookies" behind Browns QB Johnny Manziel, Bills WR Sammy Watkins, Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater and Panthers WR Kelvin Benjamin. Jaguars jersey sales at the retailer have "moved up from No. 30 to No. 26" (JACKSONVILLE.com, 9/24).
TIME (WARNER) IS ON MY SIDE: The Lakers have signed a multiyear deal with Time Warner Cable, designating the cable provider as an official sponsor of the team. The deal will give TWC in-arena signage and fan engagement, hospitality, digital and print advertising, online promotions and charity tie-ins, as well as other elements (Lakers).
