UPDATE: Former MLB star and 2018 World Series champion Jackie Bradley Jr. has officially joined the Indianapolis Clowns, marking a groundbreaking moment in sports history. The announcement came during the inaugural Banana Ball player draft held on Thursday night, making Bradley Jr. the first ex-MLB player to fully commit to this unique baseball format.
This decision is not just a career move; it represents a significant cultural shift within baseball. Bradley Jr., an All-Star in 2016 and a Golden Glove winner in 2018, expressed that this opportunity materialized “just days ago,” influenced by his daughter’s enthusiasm for Banana Ball. “I feel like this was another opportunity to help the people behind me and hopefully catapult other African-American ballplayers to want to play the game,” he stated.
The Clowns, known for their rich history as a prominent exhibition team in the Negro Leagues, were reestablished for the upcoming 60-game season of the Banana Ball Championship League, set to kick off in 2026. Their legacy includes signing baseball legend Hank Aaron to his first professional contract. This revival aims not only to entertain but also to educate fans about the historic contributions of Black baseball players, as emphasized by Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
Bradley Jr. is not closing the door on a potential return to Major League Baseball. “If there’s an opportunity to go back to the majors, I would obviously weigh that,” he told ESPN. However, he is currently focused on embracing this new chapter with the Clowns, hoping to leave a lasting legacy and inspire future generations.
The excitement surrounding Bradley Jr.’s commitment to the Clowns is palpable. He represents a fresh approach to baseball, aligning with the Clowns’ mission to blend entertainment with athletic excellence. The involvement of former MLB players in Banana Ball games, such as Roger Clemens and Johnny Damon, illustrates the growing appeal of this format, which offers a fun alternative to traditional baseball.
Bradley Jr.’s participation could herald a new era for Banana Ball, attracting players looking for a shorter, engaging season filled with excitement. “Jackie’s a trendsetter,” said Jesse Cole, founder of Banana Ball, emphasizing that his involvement may encourage others to consider this alternative as they near the end of their careers.
Despite the thrilling prospects of his new role, Bradley Jr. does not view this as a farewell tour. “It all has to come to an end at some point,” he acknowledged, but he aims to cherish each moment on the field. As Banana Ball continues to evolve rapidly, with expectations of reaching 3.2 million fans next year, Bradley Jr.’s engagement is a vital step in its ascent.
Fans can expect to see Bradley Jr. showcase his flair and passion for the game, while also honoring the historical significance of the Indianapolis Clowns. This development promises to ignite interest in both the Clowns and Banana Ball as they prepare for a groundbreaking season ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on this historic partnership that’s set to redefine the landscape of baseball.