Cholula MLB Team "Flamethrower" Sponsorship
Spitball established a partnership initiative with Major League Baseball teams for Cholula Hot Sauce, which began with a straightforward concept: a fastball dubbed the "Cholula Flamethrower," clocking in at over 98 MPH, accompanied by an immediate radar display on-screen. This initial idea quickly evolved into a multi-year program that achieved an impressive 800% return on investment and propelled Cholula to become the fastest-growing hot sauce, rising from 7th to 3rd place in the market. Instead of going directly to the MLB and spending heavily on TV advertising—which wasn't feasible within their budget and didn't align with the brand's need to promote product sampling—Spitball chose to collaborate directly with the teams. This decision provided greater access, flexibility, and branded concessions at stadiums, which were vital for allowing fans to try the product. By working closely with the teams, stadiums, and TV partners, Spitball created a cohesive and integrated brand presence. They strategically acquired key signage, such as placements behind home plate and in the outfield, which provided substantial TV exposure without the costs associated with traditional commercials. This smarter strategy contributed significantly to the brand's success and enabled reinvestment in the six-year initiative.