Posted on: October 7, 2023, 05:18h.

Last updated on: October 7, 2023, 05:18h.

Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, an iconic figure in sports betting and mattress marketing, was scheduled to throw the first pitch in Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Saturday.

However, the Houston Astros, who were facing the Minnesota Twins at Minute Maid Park, unexpectedly canceled McIngvale’s appearance. The question is, why?

McIngvale’s pitching skills in the post-season are well-established. In the previous year, he threw the first pitch before Game 6 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Moreover, he holds the record for the largest single sports wager win ($30 million) in U.S. history. McIngvale bet $3 million at 10-to-1 odds on his hometown Houston Astros to win the World Series on May 13, 2022.

Reason Behind Mattress Mike’s Absence

According to a video McIngvale shared on Twitter, a competing mattress retailer filed a complaint. It turned out that they had an official sponsorship with Major League Baseball, while McIngvale’s Gallery Furniture did not.

“I received a call from the Astros a few minutes ago, informing me that Mattress Firm is a national sponsor of Major League Baseball. That’s fine, good for them. They said they wouldn’t allow me to throw the first pitch,” McIngvale explained in the video.

McIngvale revealed that the ballclub reached out to him on Thursday, inviting their biggest fan to perform the honor.

“What’s more, Reggie Jackson, a consultant to the Astros, Mr. October, and a great friend of mine, called me yesterday and suggested I arrive early to warm up so I wouldn’t embarrass myself by bouncing the ball. I thought it was a good idea, Reggie,” McIngvale added.

However, the Astros reversed their decision on Saturday, just a few hours before McIngvale was set to take the mound.

This Isn’t the First Time

This isn’t the first instance where the same mattress company interfered with a promotional appearance by McIngvale. Last year, he was ousted from a judge seat at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo due to a complaint from the same company.

McIngvale concluded his video message with a direct statement to his rival.

“There’s more than enough business for all of us. Our focus should be on promoting better sleep, rather than undermining our competitors. I’m certain that my extensive advertising has sold plenty of mattresses for Mattress Firm. Let’s all strive to be better than that and support the ‘Stros,” he said.