On the latest Sporticast episode, hosts Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss some of the biggest sports business stories of the week, including a notable participant in the Houston Astros‘ pursuit of free agent pitcher Tatsuya Imai.
The Astros announced a new three-year, $54 million contract for Imai earlier this week. At the start of the introduction, owner Jim Crane said the team’s naming rights partner, Japanese HVAC company Daikin, played an important role in helping the team land the pitcher. It’s part of a broader strategy in Houston, with the Astros “laser focused” on finding more talent in the Pacific Rim.
Imai’s signing is also great for Daikin. The Japanese company now has a Japanese star playing in the venue that bears its name. It also got mentioned in the announcement, and got to participate in the photoshoot afterwards. That’s all added value to their partnership.
The hosts talk about how the saga shows the other side of sports sponsorships. Yes, signage and marketing is a big piece, but there’s plenty of other hidden motivations and benefits.
They close by talking through a handful of other topics:
The Athletics just lost a trademark claim amid their slow move to Las Vegas, but does it really matter for the team?
NBC sold out its Winter Olympics ad inventory. What’s the latest in the Olympic movement?
KKR is nearing a deal to buy Arctos Partners. What to make of a potential blockbuster transaction in sports and private equity?
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