UPDATE: The Savannah Bananas are making headlines today with a groundbreaking announcement that will reshape the landscape of baseball entertainment. Founder Jesse Cole revealed on ESPN2 that the inaugural season of the Banana Ball Championship League will hit 75 stadiums across 45 states in 2026, aiming to entertain an estimated 3.2 million fans.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for the team, which began in 2016 with only a handful of ticket sales. Cole and his wife invested everything to bring the Bananas to life, and now, after just a few years, they are set to play in front of millions. “We want to take this where anyone can drive to a game within four to six hours,” Cole stated, emphasizing the ambitious vision for the league.
Banana Ball, a fast-paced and fan-engaging version of traditional baseball, will be played in iconic venues like the Saints’ Superdome and Gillette Stadium, alongside smaller parks like Dehler Park in Billings, Montana, expected to host the smallest crowd of just 3,000 fans. The thrilling lineup includes games in 14 MLB parks and 10 football stadiums, with capacities exceeding 100,000 at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field and Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium.
The announcement also introduced two new teams, the Loco Beach Coconuts and the Indianapolis Clowns. The Coconuts will be coached by two-time World Series champion Shane Victorino, bringing a beach-themed vibe to the league, while the Clowns honor a historic franchise that once featured legends like Hank Aaron. Ryan Howard, another baseball icon, will coach the Clowns, celebrating their rich legacy in the Negro Leagues.
Cole expressed that bringing back the Clowns is a tribute to a team that paved the way for blending entertainment with baseball. “The rebirth of the Indianapolis Clowns is an exciting and historically relevant tribute,” said Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. “This partnership will educate fans about the rich history of the Negro Leagues.”
The league kicks off in February 2026 with 11 preseason games, leading to a competitive 50-game regular season from late April to September. The season culminates in the Banana Bowl on October 10, 2026, where the top teams will vie for championship glory.
Fans are already buzzing as Cole anticipates a surge in ticket demand, predicting 3 million to 4 million people will join the ticket lottery list within the first 48 hours. Despite the excitement, ticket prices will remain unchanged, with Cole firmly stating, “We’re not doing it.”
The expansion plans reflect the growing popularity of Banana Ball, which has sparked interest in international markets. However, Cole emphasized the commitment to providing fans across the U.S. with an unforgettable experience first. “There are still places all over the country that have not seen Banana Ball, and we want to bring it to them,” he said.
As the Savannah Bananas prepare for this monumental leap, the excitement is palpable. The innovative approach to baseball promises not only to entertain but also to create lasting memories for families and fans nationwide. Keep an eye on this evolving story as the Bananas redefine the future of America’s pastime.