As we approach Opening Day, the New York Yankees should consider modernizing their ways. This includes updating the club’s facial hair policy to allow “well-groomed beards” and adding players’ names to the back of their jerseys, a practice that sets them apart as the only team in Major League Baseball not doing so.
In remembrance of Bill Veeck, a baseball pioneer and former owner of the Chicago White Sox, who passed away almost four decades ago, the White Sox will honor him by giving away Bill Veeck bobbleheads on August 9. Veeck was known for his innovative promotional tactics, such as sending a 3-foot-7 player to the plate in 1951 and introducing the “exploding scoreboard” in 1960.
Veeck’s legacy lives on through his emphasis on making the ballpark experience enjoyable for fans. The White Sox are celebrating their 125th anniversary this year, highlighting their history and achievements, including Veeck’s impact on the team during his ownership.
It’s time for the Yankees to embrace change and pay tribute to the visionary spirit of Bill Veeck. By modernizing their approach and enhancing the fan experience, they can honor his legacy while moving forward into the 21st century of baseball.
“No humor intended here!” (Sure, Kate, we believe you.) It’s hard to imagine: The Miami Marlins were taken to court last year by a woman who claims she slipped on dog urine during their Bark at the Park event at loanDepot Park. Such events have become a regular feature for many baseball teams at various levels. Themes like Bark in the Park, Kids Run the Bases, and popular nights centered around Star Wars, Pokemon, Grateful Dead, and Minecraft now dominate promotional schedules in Major League Baseball. “Is it all starting to look the same?” asks Nate Kurant, who oversaw promotions for the Charleston RiverDogs minor league team from 2015 to 2021 under Mike Veeck, son of the legendary Bill Veeck.
Kurant’s time in Charleston included memorable events like a helicopter dropping 3,000 bouncy balls into the stadium, the world’s largest silly string fight, and “Nobody Night,” where fans were barred from the park for the first five innings, resulting in a record-low attendance of zero.
How about an ‘Awful Night’ experience?
While the minor leagues are known for their creativity in promotions, the increasing connections between minor league clubs and MLB teams have led to more standardized schedules, according to Kurant, now a host for the Tampa Bay Rays.
Mike Veeck, now the owner of the Joliet Slammers in the Frontier League, did not respond to requests for comment. The Slammers’ calendar reflects a mix of old and new ideas, such as a Disco Night on May 23 instead of the infamous Disco Demolition night.
“Put on your bell bottoms and shades, get ready to groove with lights, beats, and boogieing in the stands,” reads the event description. “Let’s shake our groove thang under the stadium lights!”
