PUMA has announced the re-signing of Barry Zito, the 2002 Cy Young Award winning Oakland A's pitcher. The two-year sponsorship agreement extends his relationship with PUMA baseball to 5 years. Zito joins some of the best players in baseball representing the PUMA brand like Johnny Damon of the Boston Red Sox and Tim Hudson, also of the Oakland Athletics.
“I believe in the PUMA brand on and off the field,” said Barry Zito. They've supported me from the beginning and I look forward to continuing our relationship for a long time.”
“We feel a special connection with Barry,” said Jay Piccola, President and General Manager, PUMA North America. “We've fostered his career from the start and I can think of no one who better represents our brand. His commitment to athletic excellence and individuality both on and off the field is the culmination of our sportlifestyle philosophy.”
A two time American League All-Star and 2002 Cy Young award recipient, Barry Zito is known as the best young left handed pitcher in the American League. Barry's impact extends far beyond the playing field as a spokesperson for the American Liver Foundation and an advocate for organ donation. He is an avid surfer, plays the guitar, has guest starred in several popular television shows, danced in Oakland Ballet's Nutcracker for charity, and pratices yoga.
Zito will start the 2004 season in a special color-up of PUMA's Diamond Ultra Low speed spike. The modernly styled, lightweight performance spike was designed to allow maximum mobility, traction and comfort. Zito's custom white/green cleat will feature his number, 75 stitched onto the heel. The in-line, black and white Diamond Ultra Low is available at puma.com and sport specialty retailers around the nation.
