The Detroit Tigers announced Thursday a multi-year partnership with online sportsbook, PointsBet, becoming the first Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise to make such a deal.
PointsBet originated in Australia and made its US debut January 2019. Before this partnership with the Tigers, the online sportsbook recently announced an agreement with the MLB that made them an “Authorized Gaming Operator” of the league. This allows PointsBet to use MLB data and logos and could lead to deals with more teams.
“PointsBet operates in rare space within the industry by owning our technology environment from end to end, which allows us to be extremely nimble on product innovation and personalized offerings to complement our app's market-leading speed,” CEO of PointsBet USA Johnny Aitken said in a statement.
The Tigers said the agreement starts later this month with the arrival of the 2020 season. As part of the deal, PointsBet will gain branding at Comerica Park, on the Detroit Tigers Radio Network, on a live streaming show on the team’s channel, and on both The District Detroit app and the MLB Ballpark app.
“Our incredible fans will love the unique experiences and innovative offerings that PointsBet’s personalized platform provides,” group president of sports & entertainment with Ilitch Holdings Inc. Chris Granger said in a statement. “We look forward to the fan-friendly enhancements this will bring to the game-day experience in and around Comerica Park for years to come.”
