Sometimes the nontraditional thought sparks a “Why Not” idea. Case in point orth revisiting as we get more intimate back on the field…
A few years ago, colleague Jim DeLorenzo had actor Thomas Ian Nicholas, star of the cult film Rookie of the Year and The American Pie Movies, coming into Philadelphia for an event. The Phillies were ready to roll out the carpet for a coveted first pitch, and the exposure such a slice of Americana present. Trouble was, Nicholas can’t get to Philly in the window needed to launch a pregame strike from the mound. Opportunity lost. Maybe not?
Why does a ceremonial pitch have to be the first one? Late arriving and distracted crowds are rarely engaged for the start of a game, Major or Minor, and frankly, media are just settling in. Many teams have also taken to throwing multiple “first pitches” now, for everyone from sponsors to dedicated fans. Why can’t you do a fifth pitch in the fifth inning, or even better a “stretch pitch” during the seventh inning stretch when players are already used to a little longer routine break. It would have to be quick and ready to go but would garner more exposure and create a buzzworthy window that is not always filled. Teams like the Cubs have always used the window for celebrity “Take Me Out to The Ballgame,” and while this would be onfield, and maybe not done every game, would get some “must watch” eyeballs and social buzz.
MiLB and the Independent Leagues have always been fertile testing grounds for promos that make it up the ladder, so maybe that’s a starting point as well. Would it be met with pushback by some? For sure. But then again so have most disruptive ideas that are now well accepted.
Just a thought to fill a gap and create opportunities. Pitch away.
