MLB

The Importance of Mascots: Understanding the Big Business, Brand Power of Costumed Characters

David Raymond’s mascot roots trace back to 1978, when the Philadelphia Phillies gave him the opportunity to portray their new organizational representative.
The Importance of Mascots: Understanding the Big Business, Brand Power of Costumed Characters
The Phillie Phanatic mascot reacts before Game Seven of the Championship Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 24, 2023. Elsa/Getty Images
Donald Laible
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David Raymond understands the importance of mascots as organizational brands in sports and other businesses, as well as the power they hold.

It’s a rare day when sports fans aren’t treated to a fuzzy, furry, loud-colored, high-energy character decked out in team gear and adding to the fun experience, be it at a Friday night high school basketball game, a college football game, or a weeknight at the ballpark in your favorite MLB or minor league city.

Donald Laible
Donald Laible
Author
Don has covered pro baseball for several decades, beginning in the minor leagues as a radio broadcaster in the NY Mets organization. His Ice Chips & Diamond Dust blog ran from 2012-2020 at uticaod.com. His baseball passion surrounds anything concerning the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and writing features on the players and staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Don currently resides in southwest Florida.