Saturday, May 14, 2011

La Russa's pain is 700 WLW's gain?

It's radio, where shock value sells. So you have to consider the source. But 700 WLW's latest promo pushes the envelope of good taste. Here’s the text:

"Cardinals manager Tony La Russa has shingles, so we want to give you a chance to win some Tony La Russa shingles of your own! The Reds and Cards clash this weekend at GABP and we’re backin’ our Redlegs by giving you a shot to win Tony La Russa shingles courtesy of Ray St. Clair Roofing!".

La Russa is missing this weekend's NL Central Division clash at Great American Ball Park while he recovers from shingles, which can be a very painful condition.

I respect the nature of rivalries but this sort of thing is best reserved for fan blogs and bar stool fodder. It's also a bit disconcerting that Ray St. Clair Roofing bought in.

The Reds agree. Chief Executive Officer Phil Castellini issued the following statement:

"The Reds were not aware WLW was putting together this contest. It is in bad taste and does not reflect the spirit of respectful competition the Reds and our fans have toward Tony LaRussa and the Cardinals. We are disappointed our rights partner would execute such a contest and fail to consult us in advance so we could have prevented it from happening. Reds ownership has asked WLW to remove the page, and they are cooperating".

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