In Ft. Lauderdale, Tim Healey reports it is "not clear yet" how involved Marlins CEO Derek Jeter is "in baseball decision-making, but actual baseball decisions in the coming weeks and months should provide clarity." Marlins President of Baseball Operations Michael Hill said Jeter is in the office every day “unless he has something else scheduled.” Hill: "It’s been a pretty quick pace since he’s come aboard. He’s excited and engaged and a part of it. Looking forward to what comes next." Healey notes Jeter also has already "spent time putting his face and name, among the Marlins’ greatest marketing assets, to good use for the Marlins’ brand" (South Florida SUN-SENTINEL, 11/20).
SENDING A MESSAGE: In Chicago, Rick Morrissey notes 50,490 fans "showed up at Soldier Field" yesterday for the Bears' 27-24 loss to the Lions, which means there were "10,145 no-shows." The Bears are 3-7 and in last in the NFC North, and "at least the no-shows can say they sent a message to Bears ownership that another losing season is not acceptable and that a coaching change needs to be made." Morrissey: "Think about it: The Bears are starting a rookie quarterback who was the second overall pick in the 2017 draft, and interest in the team is either tepid or withheld as punishment" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 11/20).
GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY: In Las Vegas, Alan Snel noted the Golden Knights' business and video teams are using humor to "get some marketing attention." The Golden Knights' video production team this season has "already created at least three funny videos that have been well received." The team used Jimmy Kimmel’s “Mean Tweets” skit to "respond to fans who expressed mixed reviews to the rollout of the team’s mascot called, 'Chance,' a gila monster played by mascot character performer Clint McComb." The team also purchased a "powerful new goal horn that cost in the high five figures" (LVSPORTSBIZ.com, 11/19).
