USPTO Refuses MLB 'Play Ball' Trademark Application

Major League Baseball's effort to secure a federal trademark for the phrase 'Play Ball' has been rejected by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The league filed multiple applications that faced repeated refusals from examiners.

The phrase is considered generic or merely descriptive in the context of baseball, leading to the denials. MLB has not indicated plans for further appeals or modifications to the applications at this time.

This outcome highlights the challenges brands face when seeking protection for common sporting terminology.

Sources: https://www.intellectualpropertynews.com/trademark-news/mlbs-effort-to-trademark-play-ball-strikes-out-at-uspto/ https://www.intellectualpropertynews.com/trademark-news/