August's best Minor League ballpark promotions
Welcome to Promo Preview, a monthly roundup of Minor League Baseball promotions to look forward to. This month’s highlights include former presidents, sitcom shenanigans, steamed crustaceans, and of course, much more. Have a gander.
Welcome to Promo Preview, a monthly roundup of Minor League Baseball promotions to look forward to. This month’s highlights include former presidents, sitcom shenanigans, steamed crustaceans, and of course, much more. Have a gander.
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Seth Beer-Stein giveaway
Amarillo Sod Poodles (Double-A AZ), Aug. 8
The Sod Poodles gave away team-logo beer steins last Aug. 3, and wouldn’t you know it, that game wound up featuring a home run during a 3-for-3 night by slugger Seth Beer. Beer has moved on, he now plays for Triple-A Indianapolis after being selected by Pittsburgh in the Minor League phase of the Rule 5 Draft (a Rule 5 Draft Beer, if you will). He won’t be forgotten in Amarillo, however: This year’s Sod Poodles giveaway is, specifically, a Seth Beer-stein. Bottoms up. Get tickets »
ON OUR BEER STEIN GIVEAWAY NIGHT! pic.twitter.com/mp0UBApflv
— Amarillo Sod Poodles (@sodpoodles) August 4, 2023
Gerald Ford bobblehead giveaway and 50th anniversary celebration
West Michigan Whitecaps (High-A DET), Aug. 9
Gerald Ford, 38th president of the United States, grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich. This year marks the 50th anniversary of his inauguration, Aug. 9, 1974, when he was sworn in following Richard Nixon’s resignation. The Whitecaps, who play in Comstock, just outside of Grand Rapids, are celebrating the milestone with a Gerald Ford bobblehead giveaway and game-long celebration of Michigan’s only president. Though better known for his football exploits, Ford was a baseball fan who rooted for the Whitecaps’ parent club, the Detroit Tigers. He attended a Whitecaps game during the 1995 season, thereby putting the Ford in “affordable family fun.” Get tickets »
Happy President's Day! Thinking back to when Gerald Ford visited us in 1995. #25thseason #PresidentsDay pic.twitter.com/jJbtDcdqGa
— West Michigan Whitecaps (@wmwhitecaps) February 19, 2018
Seinfeld Night
Brooklyn Cyclones (High-A NYM), Aug. 10
The annual juggernaut that is the Cyclones’ “Seinfeld Night” rolls on, seemingly getting bigger with each iteration. For the second season in a row, it’ll be highlighted by a George Costanza bobblehead giveaway; 2023’s featured him as a whale-riding marine biologist, while this year’s depicts him as the Original Bubble Boy taking on the “scary cold” in a big coat (it’s Gore-Tex). Other standout elements include appearances by the actors who played Jean-Paul and Mr. Lippman on the show (bobbleheads featuring these characters are also part of a special ticket package). Stick around after the game for the on-field Elaine Dance Contest, in which contestants flout their herky-jerkiest moves. Get tickets »
35 years ago today, #Seinfeld made its TV debut.
— Brooklyn Cyclones (@BKCyclones) July 5, 2024
On August 10 we'll celebrate 35 years of nothing with:
❄ George "Scary Cold" Bobblehead
⏰ Jeremiah Burkett (Jean-Paul) Appearance
🧁 Richard Fancy (Mr. Lippman) Appearance
💃 Elaince Dance Contest
🎟️ https://t.co/5v6CR1DJ6e pic.twitter.com/05x4aaoRzM
Raft Racers
Tulsa Drillers (Double-A LAD), Aug. 14-18
Did you know? There are now two Texas League teams, neither of whom play in Texas, who have alternate identities based around idiosyncratic Arkansas River racing activities? The first to do it were the Wichita Wind Surge, who unveiled Turbo Tubs in 2022. They are now joined by the Tulsa Drillers, who will play as the Raft Racers as part of their annual local area code-referencing 718 Weekend. It’s all a tribute to a recently resurrected Labor Day tradition that dates back to 1973, in which Tulsans in handmade rafts raced each other down the river. The logo features a carefree character named “Raftin’ Ronny,” named after the radio station general manager who came up with the idea to stage the race. Get tickets »
Maine Lobster Bakes
Portland Sea Dogs (Double-A BOS), Aug. 23
If you were asked to name Maine’s most iconic food, the answer would be lobster. Right? The Portland Sea Dogs, eschewers of the obvious, nonetheless have previously unveiled four local food-based alternate identities that don’t involve lobster. (For those keeping score at home, that would be Whoopie Pies, Red Snappers, Clam Bakes and Bean Suppahs.) They couldn’t hold out forever, though, as the Sea Dogs will play as the Lobster Bakes on Aug. 23. The primary logo, outlined on the jersey as if it was on a bib, depicts a down-on-his-luck lobster sitting in a pot while surrounded by other lobster bake ingredients. An alternate logo, featured as a sleeve patch, reads “Buoys of Summer.” It should be a good night for pinch-hitters. Get tickets »
New Hampshire Primaries
New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Double-A TOR), Aug. 23
You’ve probably heard: It’s a presidential election year. This means … well, a lot of things, obviously. But within our narrow parameters, it means the New Hampshire Fisher Cats are once again resurrecting their “Primaries” identity. The Fisher Cats were originally named the Primaries, paying tribute to their state’s first-in-the-nation primary status, but scuttled it before ever playing a game (the local fan base didn’t like it). The star-spangled jerseys feature an elephant on the right sleeve and a donkey on the left, providing equal and appropriately placed representation of both major political parties. Get tickets »
Quick Hits
Five more upcoming promotions of note, recapped in 38 words or less.
Extreme Difficulty Night
Altoona Curve (Double-A PIT), Aug. 2
The Curve boast that “Not one person will win a between-inning game tonight … it’s too extremely difficult.” Think you have what it takes to prove them wrong? Get tickets »
Gunnar Henderson Sliding Bobblehead
Bowie Baysox (Double-A BAL), Aug. 4
Henderson’s quick ascent to the Majors was preceded by time with the Bowie Baysox in ’21 and ’22. The team’s bobblehead giveaway depicts him amid a majestic head-first slide. Get tickets »
Random Municipal Water System Giveaway Night
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (Triple-A MIA), Aug. 13
The Jumbo Shrimp always have ridiculous theme nights on tap. In this case, that statement can be taken literally. Get tickets »
Salute to the Puzzle Cube
Binghamton Rumble Ponies (Double-A NYM), Aug. 22
A certain famous puzzle cube made its debut 50 years ago and became a pop culture phenomenon. The Rumble Ponies celebrate the anniversary with a team-logo puzzle cube giveaway and multicolored theme jerseys. Get tickets »
Paul Skenes Strikeout Counter Bobblehead
Indianapolis Indians (Triple-A PIT), Aug. 31
The base of the bobblehead features a strikeout counter so Skenes' rapidly increasing career total can be tallied in real time. Make sure to include the 45 he racked up while pitching for Indianapolis earlier this season. Get tickets »
Benjamin Hill is a reporter for MiLB.com and writes Ben's Biz Blog. Follow Ben on Twitter @bensbiz.
Escambia High Has Made Games At Blue Wahoos Stadium A Spring Break Reward
When taking over in 2016 as Escambia High’s baseball coach, Tracey King made a point of scheduling a game each season at Blue Wahoos Stadium. “For us, it is our spring break trip,” said King, whose team is soaring with an 11-2 record and unbeaten in District 1-4A. “We try
Blue Wahoos Provide Impactful Experience For Wisconsin-Whitewater Baseball
Months of planning, days of travel, have created an annual mid-March excursion by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater baseball team viewed beyond a spring getaway into better weather. It is considered a vital component of the team’s future. “Almost every program at our level now…. all the programs are taking trips.
Blue Wahoos Stadium Going Through Home Improvement Projects Before Season Begins
With the team’s 2025 season less than 30 days away, the largest home improvement project at Blue Wahoos Stadium is progressing toward completion. Most of the enhancements are in areas not visible from the outside, or the seating bowl, but necessities to ensure the team’s future as direct affiliation with
Nine Former Blue Wahoos to Appear in 2025 Miami Marlins Spring Breakout Game
PENSACOLA, FL – Major League Baseball announced on Thursday the rosters for the second annual “Spring Breakout” Prospect Games that will be part of Major League Spring Training and broadcast live on MLB.tv, MLB.com, MLB Network, and the MLB app from March 13-16. The Miami Marlins prospect team will play
UWF Baseball Team Celebrates Return To Blue Wahoos Stadium With Walk-off Win
A return trip by the UWF baseball team this year to Blue Wahoos Stadium became a far different experience. This one was celebratory. Argos’ first baseman Cade Easterbrook hit a slow roller in the ninth inning with the bases loaded, and Alex Urias beat the throw to the plate for
Pensacola Blue Wahoos Principal Owner Quint Studer Wins 2025 Baldrige Foundation Leadership Award
Quint Studer, principal owner of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos and co-founder of Pensacola’s Healthcare Plus Solutions Group® (HPSG), has been named one of the 2025 recipients of the Baldrige Foundation Leadership Excellence Awards. The award, given by the Foundation for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, Inc., recognizes leaders who
Blue Wahoos Stadium Hosts UWF Baseball Tuesday In Showcase Game
His desire to play an annual game at Blue Wahoos Stadium has provided UWF baseball coach Mike Jeffcoat with a notable element this time. After the Argos came back against No. 16 ranked Delta State to win their biggest weekend series, so far, this season, they will face the University
Blue Wahoos Announce Preliminary 2025 Promotional Schedule
PENSACOLA, FL – The Pensacola Blue Wahoos announced their preliminary promotional schedule for the upcoming 2025 baseball season at Blue Wahoos Stadium on Friday, bringing a jam-packed slate of giveaways and exciting promotions back to downtown Pensacola! Single-game ticket sales begin on Saturday, March 1 as the Blue Wahoos embark
Blue Wahoos First-Time Contest Winners Thrilled By Marlins FanFest Experience
Taylor Addison was driving her daughter last month to a cheerleading competition in Biloxi when jolted by a phone call, which led into a family trip of a lifetime. She was informed of submitting the winning entry in the Blue Wahoos first-time contest of an all-expenses paid trip to Miami
Blue Wahoos Celebrate Majority Women Impacting Organization Success
A recent photo gathering of women working in the Blue Wahoos front office created a poignant moment. With this month highlighting the 39th celebration of National Girls and Women In Sports Day, officially recognized February 5, the Blue Wahoos have become a leader in the sports business world for women
Blue Wahoos Announce 2025 Coaching Staff Led by Manager Nelson Prada
The Miami Marlins announced the 2025 coaching staff for the Double-A Pensacola Blue Wahoos on Tuesday, led by new manager Nelson Prada. Prada will be joined by pitching coach Jerad Eickhoff, hitting coach Jason Krizan, defensive coaches Jay Weaver and Ruben Someillan, athletic trainer Adam Sparks, strength and conditioning coach
Blue Wahoos To Make Up Half Of Miami Marlins Spring Training Roster
When the Miami Marlins assemble for the official start of spring training in two weeks, exactly half of the 64 players in camp will be former Blue Wahoos players. The Marlins on Monday released their non-roster invitees, which include 16 former Blue Wahoos, led by last season’s top player, catcher
Blue Wahoos Stadium sets the stage for the start of the Double Bridge Run
Runners for the 2025 Publix Pensacola Double Bridge Run 15k presented by aDoor Real Estate will get an added bonus this year — shelter from the cool coastal breeze while they are inside Blue Wahoos Stadium. Runners have typically had to brave the chilly temps outside the stadium while waiting
Win a Trip for Four to Miami Marlins FanFest in Blue Wahoos Social Media Contest
PENSACOLA, FL – The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are offering four fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive a VIP experience at Miami Marlins FanFest, held at loanDepot Park on Saturday, February 8. The winning entrant will receive round-trip airfare from Pensacola International Airport to Miami International Airport, hotel accommodations in Miami,
Blue Wahoos' Advocate Roger Mayo, Decorated Prep Coach, Gets Hall of Fame Honor
Roger Mayo was once a pitchman for Blue Wahoos Stadium, pushing the return of affiliated baseball in Pensacola and the groundbreaking in 2009 for the now-acclaimed bayfront ballpark. He was then a fixture as Escambia High baseball coach, a role he held for 32 years. “Everywhere I went, everyone I
Blue Wahoos Return An Early New Year’s Eve Party To Ballpark
The Blue Wahoos are providing a New Year’s Eve experience, family style. For the first time in six years, Blue Wahoos Stadium will host “Kazoo’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party,” an event on Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. that will feature renowned country music artist Jessie Ritter, inflatable
Blue Wahoos Leadership Team Reconnects, Gains Insight at MLB Winter Meetings
The Blue Wahoos had an increased presence at the annual Major League Baseball Winter Meetings, which concluded on Wednesday in Dallas. The three-day event began Monday at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, located in an upscale suburb of Dallas. This event, which brings together MLB and Minor League Baseball executives, has
Blue Wahoos Stadium to Host "Kazoo's Rockin' New Year's Eve Party"
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are ringing in the new year in festive fashion, hosting “Kazoo’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party” at Blue Wahoos Stadium on December 31. The family-friendly event will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and feature inflatables, playing field access, ballpark concessions, a photo booth
Blue Wahoos Celebrate Holiday Season By Hosting, Participating In Variety Of Events
In ways which have utilized both the stadium and front office staff, the Blue Wahoos have spread Christmas spirit and created holiday season cheer. Being part of Saturday’s annual Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade, presented by Cox Communications, will complete a two- weekend stretch of four private stadium events and two
Quint and Rishy Studer Provide Holiday Surprise to SFOC Employees
Quint and Rishy Studer have provided each full-time and part-time employee of the Studer Family of Companies, Center for Civic Engagement and Studer Community Institute a gift of $1,000 in advance of the holiday season. “Rishy and I see how inflation impacts individuals and families,” said Quint Studer in an
Blue Wahoos Announce Front Office Promotions
PENSACOLA, FL – The Pensacola Blue Wahoos announced on Tuesday a series of promotions and additions to their full-time front office staff. After five years in the organization, Tyler “TJ” Johnson has been promoted to assistant general manager. Born and raised in Pensacola before attending Troy University, TJ joined the
Blue Wahoos Hosting Yard Sale Party At Ballpark On Saturday
The Blue Wahoos on Saturday are having a yard sale at their ballyard. In a first-time event, dubbed “Thrift And Sip At Blue Wahoos Stadium,” there will be a variety of items dating from the first season in 2012 to the past season on display throughout the infield and playing
Joe Mack Wins 2024 Minor League Rawlings Gold Glove Award
PENSACOLA, FL – Minor League Baseball and Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc., today announced the nine recipients of the 2024 Rawlings Gold Glove Award for defensive excellence, including the recognition of Pensacola Blue Wahoos catcher Joe Mack as one of the best defensive players in Minor League Baseball. The winners
Blue Wahoos Partnership With Local HS Soccer Team Provides New Uniforms
An opportunity for the West Florida High boys soccer team to work as volunteer parking attendants at Blue Wahoos baseball games this past summer brought dividends. Taking part in a work-fund project, the team of 34 student-athletes worked 12 games and 205 volunteer hours, enabling them the ability to purchase
Former Soul Bowl Player Leads PHS To Memorable First City Bowl Win At Blue Wahoos Stadium
Pensacola High’s Jarmacuz Fountain was enveloped in celebration, as he reflected upon his star role in the second First City Bowl game, sponsored by Cox Mobile, at Blue Wahoos Stadium. The junior quarterback led the Tigers on a dramatic, 98-yard go-ahead TD drive, capped by Fountain’s 42 yard touchdown run