As part of a special promotion on July 15, the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) will become the Charlotte Pitmasters. The promotion includes a specialty logo and uniform.
Themed behind the rich history of delicious BBQ in the City of Charlotte, the Knights unveiled a new uniform design, including an on-field cap, jersey, and merchandise at a press conference held at BB&T Ballpark on Thursday in front of hundreds of season ticket holders. The Knights will become the Pitmasters during their “Carolina BBQ Battle Royale Night” at BB&T Ballpark.
“We’ll always be proud to be the Charlotte Knights,” stated Rob Egan, Knights general manager of baseball operations. “But for one night this season, we’re thrilled to honor BBQ lovers all across the Carolinas with this unique new brand. We hope that our fans enjoy the new design and get behind this special theme night. We will have plenty of delicious BBQ fare that night as well.”
The Pitmasters brand consists of BBQ Sauce Brown (burnt orange on crown of the cap), Pulled Pork Brown (brown color in the logos), Sandwich Orange (orange on top half of the bun), and Sandwich Gold (gold on the bottom of the bun). The cornerstone of the Pitmasters brand is a pulled pork sandwich character named “Smokey”, who is calling his shot as he attempts to “smoke the ball” out of the friendly confines of BB&T Ballpark. The entire logo set was designed by Charlotte Knights vice president of entertainment, David Ruckman.
Beginning today, the Charlotte Knights will be taking pre-orders for all Charlotte Pitmasters merchandise, which will arrive at the Knights Armor Shoppe later this year. New Era on-field fitted hats are available online for pre-orders starting today at $32, while Flex-Fit 39Thirty styles are also available for $28. Additionally, t-shirts with the iconic Pitmasters logo are available for pre-order at $20. The game-worn, autographed jerseys will be available for fans through an auction on July 15th with all proceeds to benefit Charlotte Knights Charities.
On July 15th, part of the ballpark menu for the evening will feature a sampler plate consisting of three mouth-watering BBQ sandwiches. Fans will have a chance to vote for their favorite BBQ sandwich that night, which will later become a BB&T Ballpark staple. The official Food and Beverage provider of the Knights is Professional Sports Catering, who provide BBQ items for all group outings at the ballpark. The team is also pleased to once again work with Queen City Q — the official BBQ of the Charlotte Knights.