Jackie Bradley Jr. Commits Full Time to Banana Ball, A First for Ex-MLB Stars
Jackie Bradley Jr., a former Major League Baseball outfielder and 2018 World Series champion, has committed to play full-time in Banana Ball. He was selected first overall by the Indianapolis Clowns during the inaugural player draft. This marks a historic moment as he becomes the first ex-MLB player to take on this role.
Background on Jackie Bradley Jr.
Bradley is renowned for his impressive 11-year career in Major League Baseball. He gained fame as an All-Star in 2016 and received a Gold Glove award in 2018. His recent decisions signal a dedication to promoting the game in new formats.
Involvement with Banana Ball
Bradley’s journey to Banana Ball solidified a few days prior to the draft. His daughter is a fan, which motivated his appearance at a Savannah Bananas game in July at Fenway Park. This event caught the attention of Jesse Cole, the founder of Banana Ball, leading to his selection by the Clowns.
The Indianapolis Clowns’ Legacy
- Founded in 1935, the Clowns were a significant Negro Leagues team.
- They signed Hank Aaron to his first professional contract.
- The team was vibrant in showcasing talent, including women players like Mamie Johnson, Toni Stone, and Connie Morgan.
- The franchise became inactive in 1989 but was revived for the upcoming Banana Ball Championship League season in 2026.
Bob Kendrick, the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, emphasized the importance of the partnership with the Clowns, stating it’s an opportunity to educate fans about Black baseball history. Bradley underlined the Clowns’ pivotal role in linking historic Black baseball to contemporary forms.
Future Aspirations
Despite his commitment to Banana Ball, Bradley has not closed the door on returning to MLB. He last played in the majors in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals. Expressing contentment with his career, he stated he would consider MLB opportunities that benefit his family.
The Growth of Banana Ball
This step could herald a new chapter for Banana Ball, which aims to attract players nearing the end of their careers. Cole mentioned that this could provide an appealing alternative to traditional leagues. Through Bradley’s involvement, Banana Ball is anticipated to grow, with projections of reaching 3.2 million fans in its upcoming championship season.
Conclusion
Jackie Bradley Jr.’s transition to Banana Ball represents a significant development in the sport. His participation is expected to elevate the game while inspiring a new generation of players. As Bradley embraces this role, he hopes to create lasting contributions to baseball.
