Lawmakers urge MLB union to curb sportsbook promotions after Harper video

Three lawmakers have urged Major League Baseball (MLB) and the players union to tighten rules around athletes appearing in sportsbook promotions, following a personalized video sent to a FanDuel customer battling gambling addiction. In an August 10 letter to MLB Commissioner Robert D. Manfred and MLB Players Association Executive Director Bruce Meyer, Senators Richard Blumenthal and Reps.

Paul D. Tonko and Valerie P. Foushee criticized the episode for exposing weaknesses in current policies governing player relationships with betting companies. The lawmakers, who are demanding a response by August 24, accused FanDuel's VIP program of being a "predatory system" designed to keep problem gamblers betting. The focal point of the controversy involves Terry Thompson, who was dealing with severe financial hardship due to gambling addiction as of late 2024.

Thompson received a customized video featuring Phillies star Bryce Harper, who wished him "an extra special Thanksgiving" and mentioned his son. Thompson's FanDuel VIP manager requested the message, which the lawmakers claim was intended to encourage further betting. Despite his denial, Harper acknowledged in a statement that he believed he was merely recording a holiday greeting for a fan without knowing it would be used for commercial purposes.

The lawmakers argue that VIP programs create close relationships with bettors and can become particularly harmful when directed at individuals struggling with gambling problems. They are urging MLB and the MLBPA to address the issue during collective bargaining talks, questioning if existing endorsement rules are sufficient to protect fans and considering potential bans on personalized sportsbook marketing involving players.