MGM Resorts International has agreed a new partnership with the New York Yankees, building on its commitment to New York and Major League Baseball (MLB).

The partnership will see the pair collaborate on VIP experiences for MGM Rewards members and baseball fans, including the chance to watch batting practice from the warning track and throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium.

MGM Resorts will also have brand placement at the Yankee Stadium on LED signage, first and third rotational signage, while its logo will also appear on the back of the pitcher’s mound during live TV broadcasts.

In addition, MGM Resorts’ Empire City Casino will host New York Yankees-themed fan activities and experiences involving current MLB players, as well as alumni.

“We remain committed to investing in the community while collaborating with the New York Yankees to provide unparalleled experiences for baseball fans,” said MGM Resorts CEO and president Bill Hornbuckle. “Our company has owned and operated Empire City Casino and Yonkers Raceway for the past five years.

“As we continue working to secure a full commercial casino license at Empire City, this partnership allows us to further develop these properties to their potential while providing the world-class hospitality guests have come to expect from the MGM Resorts brand.”

Ed Domingo, president and chief operating officer for Empire City Casino, commented: “This alliance with the Yankees allows us to create unique and engaging opportunities for guests and baseball fans alike.

“Empire City sits less than two miles from the Bronx border and is not only the gaming entertainment destination of choice for Bronxites but also the longtime employer of hundreds of team members who call the Bronx home. We are well positioned to significantly increase that number when a full-scale commercial casino license is secured.”

New York Yankees senior vice president of partnerships Michael Tusiani added: “We are excited to partner with MGM Resorts this season. Through branding displayed on signage inside Yankee Stadium and integrated into our television broadcasts, the MGM Resorts brand will only see increased exposure and recognition for its resort and casino properties, especially for the nearby Empire City Casino.”

In November 2018, MGM Resorts and MLB signed a wide-reaching partnership in the US and Japan, designating MGM Resorts as the first official gaming partner of the MLB and official entertainment partner of MLB.

Since July 2022, MGM Resorts has also been an official partner of MLB players, the commercial and licensing arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA).

Shares in MGM Resorts International (NYSE:MGM) closed 4.40 per cent higher at $45.84 per share in New York Thursday.