In Houston, Craig Hlavaty reported Astros RF George Springer has joined San Antonio-based grocer H-E-B as a "pitchman for its television commercials." Teammate Carlos Correa "joined the H-E-B team last year with a commercial co-starring" Baseball HOFer and former Astro Craig Biggio. H-E-B confirmed that Springer, Correa and H-E-B Houston President Scott McClelland will "film a series of future TV ads this week" (CHRON.com, 7/11).
HARPER'S HEROES: In DC, Marissa Payne notes Nationals RF Bryce Harper yesterday "made a splash on the All-Star Game red carpet" when he "sauntered in dressed head-to-toe like he was ready to star in a 'Miami Vice' remake." He "paired a white suit, made by men’s clothiers Stitched, and shoes with a pink shirt, as well as a pair of classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers to complete the look" (WASHINGTON POST, 7/12). Also in DC, Des Bieler notes Harper honored Jose Fernandez last night with "images" of the late Marlins pitcher on his Under Armour cleats. During player introductions, Harper "pointed at his shoes after his name was called" (WASHINGTON POST, 7/12).
ON THE UP & UP: Actress and entrepreneur Alyssa Milano in a Q&A with SPORTING NEWS' Ryan Fagan discussed her clothing line for female sports fans that started 10 years ago. She said her Touch By Alyssa Milano brand "really shined a light on the fact that female fans are important, too, as knowledgeable as male fans." Milano: "10 years ago we were man-splained everything. I feel like what we were able to accomplish paved the way for female fans to be taken more seriously in general, not just about merchandising. I think that the industry has given us a voice, and I think that’s great" (SPORTINGNEWS.com, 7/11).
FOR THE KIDS: In K.C., Diane Stafford noted collectibles of Royals mascot Sluggerrr are the latest "entry into Hallmark’s Itty Bitty lineup." The mascot joins Royals C Salvador Perez and Cubs 2B Ben Zobrist in the "roster of plush collectibles." Hallmark has worked with MLB to "add 11 team mascots to the Itty Bitty line this summer" (KANSASCITY.com, 7/7).
