MLB Attracts Big-Name Stars at Fanatics Fest

From Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady to Dwyane Wade and Joe Burrow, everyone showed out for MLB’s standout activation at Fanatics Fest this year, and Boardroom had a front-row seat.

Michael Rubin and the crew at Fanatics are doing more than just selling merch — they’re redefining what it means to be a sports fan in 2025.

This past weekend, the second annual Fanatics Fest took over New York City’s Javits Center, delivering a three-day experience that felt more like a cultural takeover than a convention. The festival brought fans face-to-face with some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment, offering an immersive playground filled with memorabilia, exclusive merch drops, live conversations, games, and interactive zones across the NBA, NFL, MLB, and beyond.

Boardroom had a front-row seat inside MLB’s standout activation. Fans and superstar athletes alike got the chance to step onto the pitcher’s mound, crush balls in the batting cages, and test their knowledge with a live MLB trivia show hosted by none other than comedian and The Daily Show alum Roy Wood Jr.

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The star power on the mound was nothing short of amazing.

Dwyane Wade, Joe Burrow, Draymond Green, and even iShowSpeed pulled up to try their luck in front of packed-out crowds. There was a steady roar of cheers, autograph pleas, and “let me get a pic!” energy all weekend long. And of course, MLB legends like CC Sabathia, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Anthony Volpe made sure to spend time with fans — chopping it up, sharing laughs, and reminding us why they’re beloved beyond the game.

Tom Brady walked away from the weekend as the biggest winner, taking the top spot in the first-ever Fanatics Games. While stopping through the MLB space, he showcased why he was a late-round selection by the Montreal Expos in the 1995 Draft.

But it wasn’t just about the big names — MLB’s space was thoughtfully curated from top to bottom. A stylist station gave fans the chance to get fitted in fresh MLB looks, complete with a glam photo moment. DJs kept the vibes alive, while The Queens Crew and Mr. & Mrs. Met danced through the crowd, adding even more cheer to the lively scene.

Fanatics Fest is proving that fan culture isn’t just alive — it’s thriving. When you invest in the experience, not just the merch, you build moments that live far beyond the game.

Until next year, Fanatics Fest.