In baseball, the diamond isn’t the only place players shine. Some MLB stars took their talents off the field and into the world of business, branding, and big-time sponsorships—selling everything from energy drinks to shampoo.
While their home run count may have made headlines, their commercial reach went even further. These are the 20 MLB players who turned themselves into full-blown marketing machines, hawking products like their livelihoods depended on it—and for some, they probably did.
20. Mike Piazza
Mike Piazza wasn’t just smashing balls out of stadiums—he was also selling cologne like it was his day job. Whether it was fashion, fitness, or fragrance, Piazza was always camera-ready.
19. Bryce Harper
With the hair of a shampoo commercial and the swagger of a rock star, Bryce Harper became a marketer’s dream. He signed deals with everyone from Under Armour to Gatorade, proving his appeal far beyond the batter’s box.
18. Jose Canseco
Before social media influencers were a thing, Jose Canseco was selling books, supplements, and controversy. He turned his notoriety into a weirdly successful side hustle that somehow kept the spotlight on him.
17. Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts brought championship flair and serious style, making him a go-to for endorsements. Whether it was luxury watches or slick apparel, Betts knew how to cash in without swinging a bat.
16. Johnny Damon
Johnny Damon’s flowing locks and postseason heroics made him a marketing darling. He parlayed his Red Sox and Yankees fame into a flurry of commercials and quirky TV appearances.
15. Aaron Judge
Aaron Judge’s skyscraper frame and clean-cut image made him tailor-made for selling products. From Pepsi to Adidas, companies lined up for a chance to ride the Judge’s Chambers wave.
14. Alex Rodriguez
A-Rod never missed a branding opportunity—before, during, and especially after his playing days. From luxury suits to protein shakes to owning part of a basketball team, he’s sold everything short of his bobblehead.
13. Manny Ramirez
Manny being Manny also meant Manny being marketable. His carefree style and zany antics made him perfect for offbeat ads and endorsement deals that matched his personality.
12. Clayton Kershaw
Clayton Kershaw used his dominance on the mound to build a wholesome image off it. He’s pitched everything from Subway sandwiches to charity causes, and fans bought into all of it.
11. Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter turned cool confidence into commercial gold. From Nike to Gatorade to his own media brand, Jeter’s image has been one of the most tightly controlled—and most profitable—in sports.
10. David Ortiz
Big Papi had a big bat and an even bigger personality, which brands couldn’t resist. From car commercials to snack endorsements, Ortiz became as much a household name as the products he sold.
9. Ken Griffey Jr.
The Kid wasn’t just a baseball icon—he was a marketing phenom. His Nike ads were legendary, his smile unforgettable, and his brand appeal lasted long after his playing days.
8. Justin Verlander
With movie-star looks and a Hall of Fame arm, Verlander became a crossover star. He appeared in high-end ads and fashion spreads, always managing to look like he was born for it.
7. Shohei Ohtani
Ohtani is a global marketing force, charming brands from Tokyo to Los Angeles. Whether it’s watches, beverages, or high-end gear, he’s the two-way MVP of selling stuff.
6. Reggie Jackson
They didn’t call him “Mr. October” just for the postseason clutch moments—he also brought fire to every commercial he appeared in. Reggie was flashy, confident, and the kind of star who could pitch candy bars with the same flair as he hit homers.
5. Ichiro Suzuki
Ichiro’s understated cool made him an international marketing sensation. From Japan to the U.S., he starred in everything from car ads to beverage commercials without saying much—but saying enough.
4. Fernando Tatís Jr.
Tatís Jr. brought flair, energy, and a highlight reel to match—perfect for the modern marketing world. Even during injuries, his face stayed in commercials, gaming covers, and endorsement reels.
3. Barry Bonds
Despite his polarizing image, Barry Bonds still found ways to pitch products. He had a knack for staying in the spotlight and showing up where you least expected him—like in ads for fitness gear and sports tech.
Read more: 18 NFL Draft Busts Who Still Somehow Got Endorsement Deals
2. Pete Rose
Pete Rose may not be in Cooperstown, but he’s definitely in every corner of commerce. Whether signing autographs at conventions or starring in betting app promos, Rose has sold more than his fair share.
Read more: 16 MLB Players Who Got Paid More Off the Field Than On It
1. Mark McGwire
During the home run craze, Mark McGwire’s brand power was through the roof. From protein powders to Wheaties boxes, he sold everything but the ballpark peanuts.
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