John Oliver-Rebranded Erie Moon Mammoths Draw Record Minor League Baseball Crowd

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp threw out the first pitch at the Mariners' game during Eastern Washington University day at T-Mobile Park, marking a special homecoming moment for the football star. Despite the Mariners' 11-3 loss to the Houston Astros in that game, Seattle won the overall weekend series and remains in contention for a Wild Card spot in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Erie Moon Mammoths, a minor league baseball team rebranded by John Oliver and his Last Week Tonight staff, made a highly successful debut with a record crowd and strong merchandise sales, highlighting the appeal of quirky minor league promotions. Oliver's selection of the Erie SeaWolves for rebranding was based on the team's unique eccentricity and local historical ties, with the new name honoring George Moon, who discovered mammoth bones nearby. The rebranding initiative has energized the Erie community and boosted the team's profile, as evidenced by the enthusiastic fan turnout and sales since the announcement. These events underscore the vibrant and diverse cultural connections between sports teams and their communities, from professional to minor leagues.