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EA Sports Returns to the Baseball Diamond! But...
...not in the way you would expect, or likely want unless you are a six-year-old trying out for tee ball. With 2K still holding the exclusive third-party rights to the MLB, EA's swing will have to be made with a plastic bat.
In a merchandising deal with youth sports equipment manufacturer, Toy Island, EA has rolled out branded baseball bats, hockey sticks, footballs, and basketball hoops for our athletic youth. “In our games, EA sports strives for playing experiences that are authentic and help fans enjoy and learn more about the sports they love," says Glenn Chin, vice president of brand marketing at EA Sports. "With these products, we’re helping young players find their passion and skills for sports as well, while also learning the proper techniques as they go."
I applaud EA's attempt to get children off the couch, but I doubt they will since real sports don't earn you Achievements or Trophies. The products are on store shelves now and are of a much higher quality than most children's sports gear (although I prefer the classic yellow whiffle ball bat over EA's Captain Caveman-like club). I think we can all agree it's nice to see video game branding on something other than a beverage.
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