MGM Resorts International is now a “proud partner of the New York Yankees.” The gaming giant and baseball team announced a partnership that will result in exclusive VIP experiences for MGM Rewards members. The partnership will also enhance MGM’s visibility in the state, which could help the company secure a full casino license for its Empire City location—a prospect that the company appears highly confident of.
VIP experiences for rewards members will include the opportunity to watch batting practice from the warning track and a chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium. Through the partnership, MGM Resorts will also receive brand placement, including:
- MGM Resorts branding on LED signage at Yankee Stadium.
- Rotational signage at first and third base.
- MGM Resorts logo on the back of the pitcher’s mound during select local television broadcasts.
In the future, the agreement will include Empire City Casino hosting New York Yankees-themed fan activities and experiences involving Major League Baseball players and alumni.
MGM Aiming at Downstate NY Casino License
MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle emphasized the company’s commitment to the area.
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.
Meanwhile, Ed Domingo, President and COO of Empire City Casino, highlighted the benefits of the partnership and noted the casino’s proximity to the Bronx. He added that Empire City employs hundreds of Bronx residents, and if it receives a full casino license, that number will significantly increase.
Empire City Casino is among 11 hopefuls for three casino licenses around New York City. The minimum bid is $1 billion, including a $500 million licensing fee. However, the winners could see investment returns within a few years. While it’s a crowded field, many consider the MGM property a frontrunner, as it already has gaming facilities in place.
While interest has been high, the process of awarding the licenses has been slower than hopefuls would like. Initial plans were for the decisions to be made in 2023 and the New York State Gaming Commission has set a deadline of June 27, 2025 for final applications.
Downstate MGM License Could Help iGaming
Empire City Casino receiving one of the three licenses could boost iGaming legalization chances in New York. MGM Resorts already operates its BetMGM online sportsbook in the Empire State. However, with Hornbuckle supporting iGaming expansion, he would likely want BetMGM Casino to enter one of the largest states by population.
Having a pro-iGaming retail casino licensee could help proponents like Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. in their efforts to legalize New York online casinos. Addabbo Jr. has been trying to pass iGaming legislation, which he estimates could bring much-needed tax revenue, without much success.
One of the biggest obstacles has been the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council. The retail casino workers union fears revenue and job losses. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has also shown little interest in entertaining the idea of iGaming, especially until the retail casino licenses are sorted out.
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