Why a $700 Million Contract is a Good Investment for the Dodgers— MLB Teams, Take note

Shohei Ohtani is a force both on the field and in driving revenue wherever he plays. His impact is evident on the field as the NL leader for MVP despite not doing half his job while he takes the year off from pitching.

I witnessed Ohtani's impact firsthand during an Angels game in Atlanta. The energy was contagious; the stadium was packed with fans who wouldn't typically attend a baseball game. This surge in attendance presents exciting opportunities for advertisers. So as a fan, here’s what to look out for in the stadium.

First, you need to know where to watch:

The MLB has expanded its streaming partnerships, which hasn’t necessarily made viewing easy for fans like Mary Lou. However, this also means there are more platforms to choose from. You can try to look out for games on Apple TV+ and ESPN, but get the full slate here ⤵️ 

What to watch for:

This follows the Dodgers games all year. Below are three views of the last three away series for the Dodgers. At Saint Louis, at Arizona, and LA Angels.

Sponsors shown:

• Sato Pharmaceutical Co LTD (rotating board)

  • Japanese over-the-counter drug company similar to Johnson and Johnson in the states.

• Adidas (rotating board)

  • A global brand likely has a longer-term partnership with the Cardinals for this slot.

• Community America (permanent on the field)

  • Regional Credit Union also runs ads with Patrick Mahomes in the area. These spots can change per game but are typically longer season commitments, a great buy compared to what Sato is paying.

Sponsors shown:

• Cygames - permanent print

  • Japanese mobile game developer who is also breaking out into the US

• Paramount Bed - permanent railing print

  • Japanese-based hospital bed company makes sense for a large number of retirees and later-stage fans in the Arizona area

• アップル引越センター - permanent print

  • Japanese-based moving company

• Chase - permanent railing

  • Despite being the stadium namesake, the brand still pays per behind-the-plate slot when making their long-term commitments

Sponsors shown:

• Cygames - permanent print

  • Again following the Dodgers from Phoenix

• Yakult - rotating print

  • Yogurty milk beverage that started in Japan in 1935, is now globally available, you can find them at Publix

• NEC - permanent on-field

  • Global IT firm, again a great spot for TV plus exposure to fans in the game

• State Farm - permanent railing print

  • Big red

Since the Braves are primarily on regional broadcasts on Bally, you see regional-focused companies, but look out for new logos for the marque games on Apple TV and ESPN as other Asian-based countries look to draw the cross-over into new audiences.