The MLB Players Association told Congress Monday that it is open to new restrictions banning players from participating in personalized marketing campaigns tied to VIP or tier programs.
The letter is in response to Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Reps. Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Valerie Foushee (D-NC) initial correspondence tied to a personalized Bryce Harper video that made its way to a FanDuel VIP bettor.
FanDuel responded to the three lawmakers earlier this month but did not answer the majority of Congress’ questions. Rep. Tonko told LSR last week that he was not happy with FanDuel’s responses, claiming the operator is “incapable and unwilling to protect their customers.”
The MLBPA’s letter, written by General Counsel Jeffrey Perconte, does directly address each of the five questions Congress asked, something FanDuel failed to do. It also pushed for other responsible gambling measures.
Stance on VIP customers
Before directly answering Congress’ questions, the MLBPA provided background on its efforts to date, clearing up several points along the way.
The MLBPA says it is still in favor of endorsements between players and sports betting companies. However, it is willing to implement certain prohibitions concerning VIP customers.
“We are also open to CBA restrictions prohibiting players from participating in personalized marketing campaigns aimed at VIPs, and we will of course continue to encourage our members to support marketing initiatives that promote responsible betting and addiction resources for those in need,” Perconte wrote.
The MLBPA admitted that the current policy does not “explicitly reference or otherwise address the types of ‘predatory VIP programs’ described in your August 10th letter.”
MLBPA’s Sports Betting Policy allows players to use their name, image and likeness to engage in promotional or endorsement activities. Players are not allowed to “advertise, promote, or encourage betting on” any type of baseball game or event.
Fighting for a ban on props and micro-bets
As the Collective Bargaining Agreement expires between MLB and the players in December, MLBPA has been fighting to ban prop bets.
Multiple states have attempted to ban those types of wagers, including live play-by-play bets known as micro betting, through legislation. The MLBPA highlighted “significantly higher rates of problem gambling” tied to props.
“Specifically, we proposed that the Association and MLB engage in a joint lobbying effort to ban proposition bets and event contracts that are based on in-game performance,” Perconte wrote.
The MLBPA disclosed that MLB has “balked” at proposals, however, negotiations “remain ongoing.”
Other questions answered
Congress asked what education players receive to ensure they understand the risks their participation in sportsbook promotions poses to fans. Perconte responded with the following answer:
“The Association engages in extensive and regular educational initiatives with players, including initiatives pertaining to addiction, mental health, and conduct prohibited under our policies and the law. We will refine our educational materials to highlight the potential risks posed by personalized marketing campaigns.”
MLBPA addresses prediction markets
While Congress did not specifically ask about prediction markets, the MLBPA included some context on the controversial operators, who are offering sports event contracts in the majority of states across the U.S.
The MLBPA expressed that it, along with MLB, supplemented the Sports Betting Policy in 2025 to ban players from using prediction markets and from providing confidential information to third parties to be used on contracts.
Perconte highlighted the evolution of prediction markets, along with sports betting, citing Polymarket‘s partnership with the New York Yankees and Novig‘s relationship with the New York Mets.
Kalshi also announced multi-year partnerships with five MLB teams earlier on Tuesday.
