Pasquatch merch alert: Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino trademarks nickname
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Pasquantino registered a federal trademark for “The Pasquatch” covering apparel.
- A Pasquatch illustration trademark application is pending with the USPTO.
- MLBPA distributes player merchandise revenue; Pasquantino may earn his own share.
Royals fans may want to prepare their pocketbooks for merchandise from the team’s star first baseman.
Several stores are already selling Vinnie Pasquantino merchandise, including some bearing his nickname: “Pasquatch.” Since 2023, a Sasquatch figure — similar to the one in the old Jack Link’s Beef Jerky ads — has appeared atop the Royals Hall of Fame in left field after Pasquantino reaches base.
Major League Baseball players receive a share of merchandise sales. That money is distributed by the MLB Players Association. With Pasquantino’s latest move, he may have some of his own merchandise revenue in store, too.
On Tuesday the 28-year-old New Jersey native registered a trademark for “The Pasquatch,” covering all kinds of clothing and other apparel. The application was first filed in January 2024.
Darren Heitner, Pasquantino’s Miami-based attorney who filed the trademark, said they also have a pending application for a Pasquatch illustration. A licensed shirt is available through KC-based Charlie Hustle.
“The nickname has taken on a life of its own, and now it’s protected,” Heitner said in a LinkedIn post. “Securing a federal trademark registration is one of the most important steps an athlete can take to protect their name, nickname, or brand.”
The nickname may have needed some protection after All-Star Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh created his own mascot, “Dumpa Squatch.”
Pasquantino’s nickname has become a phenomenon, leading to various merchandise and themed food offerings — including a necklace and even a Pasquatch bat.
His play on the field has only accelerated his rise. He had his best season as a pro last year, hitting .264/.323/.475. He belted 32 home runs and drove in 113 runs — third most in the American League — in 160 games.
Pasquantino began 2026 going 0 for 12 for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. Then he made WBC history by smacking three homers in a single game, helping the Italian squad reach the tournament semifinals.
Pasquantino is still working to find his stride at the plate this season in the majors. He’s currently batting .195 with five RBI and eight hits in 41 at-bats.
The Star’s Pete Grathoff contributed reporting.
