The best stadium giveaways of 2008

Car Freshener Bobbleheads and bobble-bellies, fan-designed T-shirts, plush cows, comfy seat cushions, ice cream sundae helmets, Rally Noodles, floppy hats and more. Ballpark promotions have a storied tradition almost as old as the game itself.But for as many wacky and weird items that don't seem to make much sense, you'll also find useful household utensils, non-offensive clothing and collectibles that one day might fetch some serious dough.Here's a baker's dozen of the best, most unique, useful -- and weirdest -- promotional giveaways on tap for the 2008 season.AMERICAN LEAGUECleveland Indians, June 28 vs. Cincinnati, Free Money Night: Is there anything better than free money before you sit in your Jacobs Field seat to witness a hard-fought intra-state Interleague rivalry? One thing to know is that there are plenty of rules for this promotion, which you can read all about right here.Detroit Tigers, Aug. 11 vs. Toronto, Back-to-School Stationery Set: Goofy stuff is always fun, but parents and teachers alike will appreciate the practicality of such an item a few weeks before the school year starts.Kansas City Royals, May 10 vs. Baltimore, Golf Umbrella: There are lots of good golf courses in the Kansas City area, and also lots of rain, so what better tool to solve the occasional convergence of the two? One possible drawback: The umbrella won't help you with the lightning that often hits this part of the country. Maybe next year they'll have Rubber Suit Night.Los Angeles Angels, Aug. 30 vs. Texas, Chest Protector Backpack: "It's a backpack that looks like a chest protector. It's the first of its kind and it's just for kids." This wouldn't have anything to do with manager Mike Scioscia and the fact that he was an All-Star catcher in his playing days, would it? Minnesota Twins, July 6 vs. Cleveland, New Ballpark Hard Hat: Perfect for those long days down at the worksite, and it'll help protect you from a Justin Morneau rocket if you're in the right-field upper deck at the Metrodome.Seattle Mariners, April 12 vs. Los Angeles, J.J. Putz Soul Patch Night: Showing chin solidarity with one of the best closers in the game is a good move. Also, Seattle gets pretty chilly on April nights, so why not have something warm and fuzzy to cover up at least part of your face?Tampa Bay Rays, May 24 vs. Baltimore, Rays Disco Wig: This is a great addition to 1970s night at the Trop, but it won't be any fun unless this baby gets planted firmly on the bald dome of frequent Rays game ticket-holder Dick Vitale. Now that would be Awesome with a capital A, baby.