Major League Baseball’s Deal With Scotts Co. Promotes Use of Toxic Chemicals, Groups Say

Environmental groups called on Major League Baseball to reconsider a sponsorship and advertising deal with Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. for a line of grass seed and fertilizers called the MLB Authentic Collection™, saying in a letter released March 15 that the company’s chemical approach to lawn care harms the environment.

“Scotts’ chemical-intensive lawn care program and your alliance with the company send the wrong message to homeowners and fans of Major League Baseball—that toxic chemicals are necessary to have a beautiful green lawn,” said the letter to Tim Brosnan, executive vice president of business at Major League Baseball.

The letter signed ...