Tampa-Area Brands Beginning To Feature Rays CF Kevin Kiermaier As Pitchman

Rays CF Kevin Kiermaier is "slowly getting the attention of local and regional companies that want to put his pretty face on their products," according to Marc Topkin of the TAMPA BAY TIMES. Morgan Auto Group has "featured Kiermaier in three TV commercials, with plans for more this year promoting its dealerships throughout the Tampa Bay area." Clearwater-based energy drink maker Original Protein Water "gave him ownership shares" in an effort to "help its major push into the sports drink field." Majestic is "spotlighting him in in-stadium and in-store signage and internet advertising," while Eastbay "had him on the cover of its winter catalog." The LeBron James-owned Uninterrupted platform also "added him to its roster of athletes sharing video updates." But perhaps the "biggest of all could be a deal under discussion" with Tampa-based chicken restaurant chain PDQ. Reynolds Sports Management Exec VP Mike Dillon, who handles Kiermaier's marketing, said, "Each year the opportunities have multiplied, and I expect the interest to keep growing. Nationally he doesn't get the attention he deserves, both on and off the field, but regionally this market has really gotten behind Kevin." Original Protein Water CEO Tom Carlin said that his company is "planning to make use" of Kiermaier's area appeal with "billboards, promotional appearances and eventually commercials." Carlin noted the brand has "similar arrangements" with Giants CF Denard Span, Tigers P Justin Verlander, Braves LF Matt Kemp and former MLBer Torii Hunter, with "plans to add NFL players." Topkin notes Rays officials "like having him in their lineup for season ticket-holder events and promotional giveaways." Rays President Brian Auld: "Kevin has become one of the faces of the Rays. ... We'd be crazy not to capitalize on that by including him prominently in our marketing plans" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 2/26).