With baseball season in full swing (and my Detroit Tigers making a run at first place already), there's a good chance you'll be headed to the ballpark sometime this summer to take in a game or two. Beyond the game itself, there are some great perks to taking in America's pastime: Peanuts and Crackerjacks are great. Getting on the Kiss Cam at the park is even better. But tied for most fantastic ballpark experience: catching a foul ball, and landing yourself on national television for having a stellar fan sign.

I can't help you with catching a ball (although taking a mitt to the game doesn't hurt), and you're on your own for the Kiss Cam. But I can tell you how to increase the odds that your ballgame sign will get you seen on TV, regardless of the sport. Here are five basic design tips to help you do that.

1. Keep it current.

Whatever you write, make sure the folks at home have a reason to care about your sign. Make the text about a player that's new to the team, or a record that's about to be broken. TV cameras will be looking for something "news worthy."

2. Remember your audience.

You may have noticed that a lot of signs that make it on television include an acronym that spells out the name of the network. It pays to know these things! The more creative (and promotional!) you can get with your sign, the more likely you are to land those few prized moments of airtime.

3. Keep it simple.

Write as little as possible, with letters that are large and legible. You don't need complicated messages to be compelling! In fact, the more complicated, the less likely you are to get noticed. Seven words or fewer is perfect.

4. Use contrasting colors.

Even the largest, most legible text won't make it to the networks if you used a yellow highlighter to write it on glossy white poster board. Be sure to use colors that will stand out, especially under the glare of the sun or the ballpark's night lighting. Most signs are white poster board with black lettering. Of course, it helps if you know someone who makes really great signs. (I'm just sayin'!)

5. Keep it classy.

Don't make a sign that looks too homemade. Though the temptation to break out the puffy paint and neon glitter will be high — we're not judging — try to contain yourself to a few well-placed spangles if you absolutely must add a touch of bling.

If all else fails, we've heard chest paint and debauchery will go a long way these days…but you didn't get that idea from us. Besides, I don't think you'll fit in our printer!