So, it looks like the MLBPA and the owners finally have a blueprint plan in the works. This one seems to be the one that both sides agree upon and will probably lead to a 2020 season. If you want information on the proposal between the two sides, please follow this link: https://thepinstripedballclub.travel.blog/2020/06/18/the-negotiations-continue/
Today, I want to talk specifically about a particular component of that negotiation. As a part of the new proposal to get the 2020 season underway, Major League Baseball and the Players’ Association are expected to agree with the placement of corporate advertising on uniforms in 2020 and 2021.
Like majority of the people who follow baseball, I like how the uniforms look with just the team colors and their logos. However, with this new proposal, the placement of ads on the uniforms will compensate for the lost revenue that fans brought to the ballparks.
According to multiple sources the idea has already been adopted by the NBA. As a matter of fact, Deesha Thosar of the New York Daily News said, “With no fans in the stands to gawk at dozens of tacky advertisements plastered around ballparks, MLB will instead plug those endorsements onto baseball uniforms. It’s a surefire way to create a source of revenue for clubs to bridge the financial gap the coronavirus pandemic has produced….” She also spoke about how the idea was being carried out in the basketball world. She said that with the adoption of the idea into the NBA, it would “…boast brands like StubHub, Goodyear and several others. It can be done tastefully, with a color-theme that matches team uniforms. It can be placed in an unobtrusive space, similar to where the Nike swoosh was introduced…”
I know I will probably get some heat for what I am about to say, but I will say it anyways.
You know what, at first I was against the very idea of turning athletes into walking billboards. Of course I am still against that, but I am coming around to putting advertisements on the uniforms. If it means that baseball can return, I guess I can live with it. Although, I do agree with Ms. Thosar, it must be done in a tasteful and organized way.
It is an unfortunate reality of the sports world, but we all have to make do with it in these uncertain times. I don’t like it, as I am sure that many of you don’t either. We’ll all just have to get used to the added symbols that are on our favorite athletes’ uniform. It is a minor dilemma that in turn will allow us to see baseball action soon. Hopefully, this proposal will be the one that brings baseball back.
The Pinstriped Baseball Lane 