When the Los Angeles Dodgers introduced a commemorative cup honoring global superstar Shohei Ohtani during opening weekend, many thought it was a fantastic way to honor the player… until they saw the price tag.
Originally marketed at $75, the “Ohtani Jersey” souvenir cup was positioned as a premium collectible. But there was a catch, the only perk attached to the steep price was unlimited refills for a single game.
For the average fan, the math simply did not add up correctly. To get any benefits from a $75 soda purchase compared to standard ballpark prices, a spectator would need to consume an almost superhuman amount of soda within nine innings. People on social media was quick to call out the perceived greed, with fans labeling the offer as a scam for the historic price point. The backlash received proved that there is a ceiling that even the most loyal fans are not willing to reach.
A swift adjustment
In a move recognizing the PR disappointment, the Dodgers organization quickly pivoted to save the promotion. The team announced a revised policy that transforms the cup from a one-day luxury into a season-long investment.
They reduced the price from $75 to $68.99, and fans now receive free refills for the entire season if they remember to bring the souvenir cup back to Dodger Stadium for future games.
While the adjustment has significantly softened the fanbase’s anger, it still highlights the rising costs of the professional sports experience. For local season ticket holders or those planning to attend five or more games, the $68.99 price tag begins to look like a greedy move.
However, seen from the point of view of a traveler or a fan visiting Los Angeles for a single series, the cup remains a potential sell. At nearly $70, it stands as one of the most expensive non-alcoholic concessions in MLB history. Buying a soda for nearly $70 is a wild financial choice, but if someone is willing to pay… the market is the market, my friend.
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