The Triple-A Int'l League Charlotte Knights will drop their team logo on July 15 to play as the "Charlotte Pitmasters during 'Carolina BBQ Battle Royale Night -- complete with new uniforms for players and merchandise for fans," according to Jenna Martin of the CHARLOTTE BUSINESS JOURNAL. Based around a "pulled pork sandwich character named 'Smokey,' the logo set was designed in-house" by Knights VP/Entertainment David Ruckman. Knights GM Rob Egan said that the club is "looking to capitalize on similar success seen by its minor league counterparts" like the Triple-A PCL Fresno Grizzlies, who "created a sensation with their taco-themed name change," and the Int'l League Lehigh Valley IronPigs, whose "Cheesesteak" promotion earned them an award. Egan said that the organization is "still putting together more details on the event, but noted that barbecue food and perhaps some pitmaster appearances will be part of the festivities" (
BIZJOURNALS.com, 3/17).
BIG SHRIMPIN':
Double-A Southern League Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Owner Ken Babby said that the
newly-rebranded organization has "sold merchandise to all 50 states and 15 countries" and is "happy with how fans have reacted so far" to the the name change. In Jacksonville, Junior Skepple notes the Jumbo Shrimp have "not put a dollar figure on how much the name change cost in merchandising and signage around the stadium, but the transition has been a work in progress." Babby: "The early returns have been incredibly positive since the launch of the Jumbo Shrimp in November. It is a big investment in terms of marketing, resources, time and dollars." The name change has "already been a boost for the Jacksonville workforce." On opening day next month, the Jumbo Shrimp front office will have "twice the number of people working than two years ago for the Jacksonville Suns" (
BIZJOURNALS.com, 3/17).
