The melding of two long-separated industries—gambling and professional sports—continues. According to a company press release, MGM Resorts is now the “official and exclusive resort casino” of the Boston Red Sox, winners of the 2018 MLB World Series. The move comes only a few short months after MLB signed a deal with MGM that saw the casino operator become the league’s “official gaming partner.”
Through the Red Sox partnership, MGM will have a marketing position behind home plate, on Red Sox radio and other media outlets controlled by the team. It will also receive exclusive access to “one-of-a-kind fan experiences” at Fenway Park. In addition, MGM Springfield will host various promotions throughout the year and will be the location for the Baseball Winter Weekend event, an event organized by the Red Sox that is held each January. That event includes rubbing elbows with Red Sox leaders, photo and autograph opportunities with Red Sox players and a number of round-table discussions on baseball-related themes.
MGM Chairman and CEO Jim Murren stated of the deal, “We are excited to enter into this historic partnership with the Boston Red Sox. Combining the two iconic brands of the Red Sox and MGM Resorts will create a new one-of-a-kind fan experience for baseball fans unique to not only New England and MGM Springfield, but the rest of the country. We look forward to continuing our work and partnerships in the world of professional sports and building on our success as a worldwide entertainment leader.”
Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy added, “This is such a natural partnership for our two brands. MGM has set the standard in the hospitality and entertainment industry and their recent expansion into the Commonwealth makes them a clear partner. We are thrilled to welcome them to the Red Sox family and look forward to a long collaboration.”
The deal was reportedly facilitated by Fenway Sports Management, a marketing firm that focuses on “partnership sales, consulting, and the creation of unique and memorable events and experiences.” The arrangement will also see new MGM signage around Fenway Park and VIP gameday hospitality promotions.
