A Texas-based legal battle is unfolding as Ball Mudder LLC has filed a lawsuit against Major League Baseball (MLB), demanding nearly $100 million in damages. The case, lodged by Norred Law in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, accuses MLB of breach of contract, promissory estoppel, and common law fraud. The complaint centers on an alleged commitment by MLB to purchase 100 ball mudding machines from Ball Mudder, a startup innovating in the way baseballs are treated before play.
The company claims that it invested $1.8 million into developing these patented machines, which are meant to provide a uniform application of substances on baseballs, based on MLB’s representation. According to the lawsuit, Ball Mudder expected an order for the 2021 Spring Training season, which never materialized after a change in MLB’s executive team. The complaint states that this change led to the cessation of communication from MLB, leaving Ball Mudder at a significant financial loss.
The lawsuit seeks $24 million for lost profits and financial projections, alongside $72 million in exemplary damages and attorney fees. Further details about this developing case can be accessed through Law.com.