Minor League Baseball has always provided fans with unique experiences. Typically lacking big-name, star athletes to drive people to the ballpark, Minor League teams have been known to develop creative, often bizarre strategies to fill their stadiums’ seats. This post is dedicated to highlighting some of the wackiest, most unconventional promotions that Minor League teams have come up with over the years.
Toilet Seat Cushion Night
In 2007, Hudson Valley Renegades awarded toilet seat cushions for the first 3,000 fans to enter the stadium. Hey, not a bad idea if the game turned out to be a “stinker”.
Mike Tyson Ear Night
Wait till ya “hear” this one. In 2007, the Fort Myers Miracle of the Florida State League had a Mike Tyson Ear Night. The first 1,000 fans in attendance received a plastic ear in honor of boxer Mike Tyson biting off a piece of Evander Holyfield’s ear during a match. Fans also had the opportunity to customize their fake ears as ear decorating booths were set up throughout the ballpark.
Nobody Night
The Charleston RiverDogs, a Yankees minor league affiliate had a “Nobody Night” in which fans could not enter the stadium until the fifth inning. Tailgating must have gotten creative that night.
Alpaca Racing Night
In August 2016, The Harrisburg Senators hosted an Alpaca Racing Night in which, you guessed it, there was an alpaca race on the field.
Redneck Night
Last but not least, in 2014, the West Virginia Power, the Class A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates hosted a Red Neck Night. Fans participated in a best mullet contest, dirtiest truck contest, line-dancing, and Hillbilly Horseshoes.
These are only a few of the many wild promotional ideas that Minor Leagues teams have come up with to attempt to increase attendance. Who knows how many of these outlandish themed nights actually succeeded in doing so?
http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070626&content_id=265465&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb
http://www.the800poundgorilla.com/blog/best-promotions-of-the-year-in-minor-league-baseball-2014
http://www.foxsports.com/southwest/lists/top-12-craziest-minor-league-promotions-081014
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