The world of advertising often revolves around the ability to create a relevant and timely message, while maintaining production value to create a sgnificant contribution to the viewer. With any major event on the forefront, hundreds of agencies around the world are gathering their creative teams around tables or on meeting bicycles in hopes of landing the next big idea. These videos below are the perfect example of why I am so in love with the game of baseball, and the brands that integrate their messaging into the special moments. The truth is this: I’ve never been a Yankees fan. Much like every other fan that follows a team with less money and less talent, they’re just too easy to hate. Every time the Indians produce a Cy Young award winner, he goes to a new team, likely the Yankees. But with Derek Jeter finishing up his career this month, I can’t help but show some love to him for the player that he has been. A standout citizen, a class act billionaire, and a player committed to his team, even if they are the cash cow of the sport. These commercials from Gatorade and Jordan pull a heart string, baseball fan or not.

Gatorade also announced a move that goes beyond digital media, with a full-page print ad that was supposedly written by Jeter, showing up in the New York Daily News and Sports Illustrated.

As the Postseason draws near, I pay homage to the great sport of baseball. From the stories that we rally behind, to the legacies that have been passed down from generation to generation. Each stadium offering something for people of all ages, from cotton candy and cracker jacks to scorecards and historical museums. May the game of baseball always be America’s true love.