In Seattle, Nick Eaton noted Boeing on Sunday rolled another Seahawks-themed 747-8 freighter "out of the paint hangar at Everett’s Paine Field." The new plane’s paint job is "similar to the last, with just a few changes." The "biggest difference" is a new tagline -- “In it to win it!” Boeing said the plane will participate in several "Seahawks-related activities throughout the rest of the year" (SEATTLETIMES.com, 7/20).
HOT CORNER: In Chicago, Phil Thompson noted Cubs 3B Kris Bryant "has been the top-seller of jerseys, shirts and other merchandise on Fanatics.com so far this month, just edging" Angels CF Mike Trout. The Cubs rookie "recently signed an exclusive memorabilia deal" with Fanatics (CHICAGOTRIBUNE.com, 7/20).
HITTING FOR THE SPIN CYCLE: In K.C., Pete Grathoff noted Maytag "has placed a washing machine outside of the Royals’ bullpen -- with the top open" -- at Kauffman Stadium. Should a player (Royals or visiting team) "hit a home run into the washer," Maytag will donate $1M to the local Boys & Girls Clubs in that city (KANSASCITY.com, 7/20). Kauffman is one of four ballparks included in the promotion (THE DAILY).
IN THE SCRUM: MARKETING magazine's Sara Spary reported Coca-Cola has "kicked off its sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup," which will see the brand "lead activity with Coke Zero, the first time it has ever led a sports deal with a no sugar drink" (MARKETINGMAGAZINE.co.uk, 7/20).
