Dodger Stadium does something for first time in its history

Dodger Stadium’s name isn’t changing.

But for the first time in the ballpark’s 64-year history, the playing surface will have an official sponsor.

A source confirmed that the team is striking a sponsorship agreement with the clothing brand Uniqlo that will make the Japanese company the presenting sponsor of the stadium’s field.

Dodger Stadium will have an official sponsor for its playing field for the first time in its 64-year history. Neil Miller

The official branding will likely be along the lines of “Uniqlo Field at Dodger Stadium.” The Athletic earlier reported the news.

Dodger Stadium is one of eight ballparks in Major League Baseball that has not sold its naming rights, along with Angel Stadium, Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Kauffman Stadium, Nationals Park and Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Known as the “Cathedral of Baseball,” it is the third-oldest venue in the league, and one of the most historic, having hosted two All-Star Games and 12 World Series. In 2028, it will be the baseball host site during the Summer Olympics, as well.

With all that history, plus the Dodgers’ internationally recognizable team brand that has been supercharged by the arrival of Shohei Ohtani, the stadium has long had great appeal to potential sponsors.

And now, the Dodgers have found a way to cash in on that without sacrificing the building’s official name — marking just the latest way the club has capitalized upon a prime marketing opportunity (especially with a Japanese sponsor) as it continues to establish itself as the biggest revenue-driving team in baseball.