The Houston Astros have big news! They have officially partnered with Daikin Comfort Technologies for a 15-year naming right deal. The ballpark will be officially called Daikin Park starting from January 1st, 2025. This new start also marks the end of an association they had with Coca-Cola Minute Maid, the sponsorship that had lasted for years. The stadium, known for its retractable roof, opened in the year 2000 and became the world’s first dome sports stadium.

Headquartered in Houston ever since 2004, Daikin is currently one of the leading manufacturers of air conditioning units. They also produce medical equipment and have a rich history in Japan. With their deal with the Astros, they bring their own branding to the ballpark. From logo placement on the roof to video display. However, the financial details of the deal remain under wraps.

Houston Astros stadium gets a name change

The Houston Astros are marking a new chapter in stadium history by getting Daikin on board. Astros owner Jim Crane expressed his excitement over the partnership. “The Houston Astros and Daikin share the same values: a commitment to excellence and a desire to give back to our local community,” Crane noted, even more so because the team is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ballpark. Moreover, with Daikin headquarters in Houston, they also have that touch of local connection.

Originally named Enron Field, the stadium faced a major upheaval after the bankruptcy in 2001. There was a legal settlement and a new deal struck with Minute Maid. And now finally the Daikin is taking over, and they are excited too. President and CEO of Daikin Comfort Technologies North America Inc., Satoru Akama, said, “We are thrilled to partner with the Houston Astros in building a premier position based on our shared values of excellence in both sports and community leadership.” But while both parties are thrilled, the same cannot be said for the fans!

Fans poke fun at the rebranded Daikin Park name

One fan mentioned, “THE JUICE BOX ❎THE ICE BOX☑️.” Well, that’s a creative take. The orange juice brand Minute Maid had gotten the ballpark by that name. Most Astros fans pretty much know that park as Juice Box or Minute Maid Park. Now, with an air-conditioner-centric company taking over, the ice box name does fit right in. This is the fifth name that the stadium is getting. It was called Ballpark at Union Station, then Enron Stadium, reverted to Astros Field, then Minute Maid.

Another user remarked, “ICE 🧊 BOX.” It could take a while before this change sits well with the Astros fans. However, while the name can be ice, the deed that the partnership wants to do sure is warm. They are planning a community-giving component in the Houston area. While the details aren’t disclosed yet, it’s sure far from being ice cold.

Another ardent fan commented, “2x champion Park”, highlighting the sign-stealing controversy the team faced. Most don’t count their 2017 World Series win as a win; recently, even Brian Cashman from the Yankees talked openly about the scandal and how it still pinches them. However, undoubtedly, even with the controversy, Houston Astros are one of the better franchises in MLB.

One user commented, “Bats are going to go cold again come playoff time at the new icebox.” Seems like the fact that the Astros didn’t make it to the playoffs in 2024 is hurting fans. The Astros had made the playoffs for eight consecutive years, including four visits to the Fall Classic; they even made it to the ALCS seven times, however, this streak broke in October this year.

Another commenter simply called it, “Lame.” Any change can feel foreign, but hopefully, with the games rolling, this will settle too. The first game at the rebranded Daikin Park is scheduled for late March, where the Astros will take on Sugar Land in an exhibition match. Then, on March 27, the stadium will kick off the MLB season with the Astros and New York Mets.

While many Houston Astros fans are struggling to accept this change, what’s your take on the new name? Let us know below.