Jackets, Indians Team Up

In an effort to reach a larger fan base, The Columbus Blue Jackets have teamed up with the Cleveland Indians, the Jackets announced via the website on Tuesday.The Ohio based franchises unveiled a plan in which they

would share advertising and promote special ticket offers at each team’s events. The deal makes sense with Cleveland’s AAA affiliate Columbus Clippers right next door to Nationwide Arena.

To kick off the partnership, Blue Jackets Hockey to Go will visit Progressive Field this Sunday, August 23, prior to the Indians 1:05 game against the Seattle Mariners. The exhibit will include an inflatable slap shot cage, team ticket and promotional information and special giveaways reported the Blue Jackets official website.

Also, on Sunday September 6, Blue Jackets goaltender and Calder Memorial Trophy winner Steve Mason will throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Tribe’s game with the Minnesota Twins. Mason will also be on hand to sign autographs before the game.

Expect to see the same type of promotions for the Indians at Nationwide Arena once the season begins.

The Jackets also recently announced that single game regular season tickets will go on sale beginning Thursday, September 3 at 10 am.

On Wednesday, the NHL released the list of nationally televised games for the upcoming 2009-2010 season. The Jackets are listed twice, both times appearing on Versus against Central Division foes.

Their first appearance will be on Tuesday, December 1 against the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center, and then again on Monday, December 28 at home against Detroit.

This is good news for Jackets fans since these games were two of the seven total games not scheduled to air on FSN Ohio.