Endorsement deals in the sports world reach far and wide however, baseball is one realm where we don’t typically see a huge push for promoting star players. This ultimately falls on the MLB as a whole as they haven’t truly marketed their stars well, one player in particular, Shohei Ohtani, needs no marketing push. The two-way pitcher/outfielder has made headlines since his MLB debut for smashing home runs and shutting down offenses, even causing the MLB to introduce a new rule allowing the Japanese-born superstar to go up to bat even when he has finished his job as starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels. Forgoing a proper endorsement from a sportswear brand until now, New Balance has just announced that they have signed Shohei Ohtani to a footwear and apparel deal.
Details regarding the deal haven’t been fully revealed, though we do know that Ohtani will be rocking NB gear on the field and will be helping introduce the very first cleated version of the iconic New Balance 574. Speaking on his signing, Ohtani stated “I am excited to join the New Balance family. New Balance is a global brand that is known for having incredible product innovation but also for being an authentic brand who allows their athletes to be themselves. I am excited to join with them to change the game.”
The Boston-based sportswear brand is also excited to add Ohtani to its roster of athletes and ambassadors that includes the likes of Kawhi Leonard, Zach Lavine, and Jack Harlow, with Neil Brooks, head of NB’s baseball sports marketing stating, “Shohei is a once-in-a-generation athlete who fits with our larger roster of athletes in their approach to their respective sports. Shohei is never satisfied and is constantly pushing himself and his team to be better while letting his on-field performance speak for itself. We look forward to building the relationship and helping Shohei achieve his dreams and in the process truly change the game as we know it.”
Expect to see Ohtani be featured in plenty of ad campaigns for New Balance in the near future and possibly get his own signature baseball cleat. For the time being, if you’re looking for some NB sneakers to wear next time you’re on the diamond, the New Balance 574 Baseball Cleat is expected to drop in February 2023 through NB for $135. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear.
Images via New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X 574 Baseball Cleat "Shark Skin"
New Balance Fresh Foam X 574 Baseball Cleat "Navy"
