The College World Series is underway with immense anticipation and potential for growth, showcasing the top 8 college baseball teams. Last year’s success, highlighted by standout players like Paul Skenes and Dylan Crews, significantly boosted TV ratings and set a new viewership record, with 2.86 million viewers tuning in for the final—a 75% increase from the previous year. This surge in popularity bodes well for the players, coaches, and fans, marking a notable upward trend in college baseball’s exposure and interest.
This year’s CWS is particularly compelling as it features teams exclusively from the SEC and ACC, conferences known for their strong baseball programs. Among the players to watch are projected first-round picks Christian Moore and Billy Amick from Tennessee, and two-way star Jac Caglianone from Florida, who is a consensus top 5 pick. These players, along with others, are drawing significant attention from brands eager to capitalize on their marketability. For instance, Caglianone has already secured a deal with Rapsodo, a leading ball-tracking company with ties to MLB stars like Shohei Ohtani.
The 10-day event is also a major boon for Omaha’s economy. The latest economic impact study by Visit Omaha and Tourism Economics reported a $115 million impact for 2023, a significant increase from the $88.3 million reported in 2019. This growth reflects the event’s ability to support over 22,000 jobs and generate more than $3 million in local taxes from over 72,000 hotel room nights.
Corporate sponsorship is another critical aspect of the CWS’s economic footprint. Major brands such as Charles Schwab, AT&T, Coca-Cola, and Capital One, already in partnership with the NCAA, will be prominently featured throughout the event. These partnerships highlight the growing recognition of college baseball’s marketing potential.
Furthermore, the current Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) legislation has opened new avenues for athletes to benefit financially. As the CWS progresses, expect to see more NIL partnerships forming, reflecting the expanding commercialization and popularity of college baseball.
The College World Series is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by increased viewership, economic impact, and commercial interest. This trend is likely to continue, benefiting all stakeholders involved in college baseball.