If the St. Paul Saints stage a dramatic comeback to defeat the Amarillo Sox during their game on Aug. 10, it probably won't be because of divine intervention.
And if any of the ballplayers attempt the Tim Tebow kneel-and-pray during the game, they probably won't get much appreciation from the crowd.
The game is being sponsored by the Minnesota Atheists, who are calling it "A night of unbelievable fun." The team's name will be changed for the evening to the "Mr. Paul Ain'ts," and the letter "S" will be covered up.
If you are not familiar with the cheeky nature of the Saints marketing efforts, you might be taken aback. But consider that this is the team that features live pigs named Kim LARDashian and Kris HAMphries. It's the team that once gave out Michael Vick dog chew toys. They like to push the envelope, and it's a major reason so many people show up to watch minor league baseball.
The Saints have also had many games sponsored by religious organizations. They have a nun, Sister Rosalind Gefre, who gives hugs and massages during the game. They have given out bobble heads of Sister Ros and miniature Buddhas to fans.
As news of their latest promotion spread across the country from the Washington Post to Sacramento Bee, however, it became clear that not everybody was in on the joke.
"When we started discussing this, there was no question there was going to be an issue," said Derek Sharrer, Saints general manager. "I don't know if controversial is the right word."
Yep, it's the right word.