MLB Marketing Notes: Bryce Harper Appears In New T-Mobile Ad During All-Star Week
In DC, Scott Allen notes Nationals RF Bryce Harper appeared in a "new T-Mobile ad" that aired during last night's Home Run Derby and will air again during tonight's All-Star Game on Fox. In the 30-second spot, a fan "greets a surprised Harper in the on-deck circle at Nationals Park and asks for a selfie." The fan explains that he is "needed in the bullpen as he starts to hustle away, an unintentionally perfect commentary on Nationals relievers and their MLB-worst 5.20 ERA in the first half of the season" (WASHINGTON POST, 7/11).
MONSTER BATS: In N.Y., Jake Becker notes Yankees C Gary Sanchez used his nickname, the Kraken, for his "customized bats" in last night's Derby. Each piece of "blackened lumber features a gold portrayal of Kraken, the famed sea monster" from the '81 movie “Clash of the Titans” which Yankees Senior VP & GM Brian Cashman "first used as a moniker for Sanchez last year." "El Gary" and "Release the Kraken" are also "branded prominently on the sweet spot." The custom order from Victus Sports came with "intricate wooden cases" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 7/11).
STANDING OUT: SPORTING NEWS' Ryan Fagan noted Charles Orndorff "wanted to figure out a way to promote his business (Premier Electrical Staffing) during one of the most-watched baseball events of the season." So he "brought a ton of highlighter-yellow-caliber shirts and handed them out to the fans sitting in his section at Marlins Park." He "gave everyone $20 to wear a shirt, and promised $60 for each homer they caught during the Derby." Plenty of fans "took him up on the offer" (SPORTINGNEWS.com, 7/10).
