50 Facts About Savannah Bananas

The Origins and Early Days

The Savannah Bananas have a fascinating backstory that sets the stage for their unique approach to baseball. Let's dive into their beginnings and initial struggles.

1. The Savannah Bananas were formed in 2016 after the Savannah Sand Gnats left the city, ending a 30-year streak of having a local baseball team.
2. In the early days, the team faced significant challenges, selling only a handful of tickets initially. By January 2016, they had overdrafted their account.
3. Owners Jesse and Emily Cole sold their home to keep the team afloat, showing their dedication and belief in the team's potential.
4. The team's name, "Savannah Bananas," was chosen through a fan contest. Despite initial negative reactions, the name became a defining feature.
5. The Bananas play their home games at Historic Grayson Stadium, affectionately known as "Bananaland."

Unique Features and Entertainment

The Savannah Bananas are not just about baseball; they are about creating an unforgettable entertainment experience. Here are some of the unique aspects that set them apart.

6. The team's uniforms are a vibrant yellow, and players often wear yellow-plaid kilts during games.
7. Owner Jesse Cole is known for wearing a bright yellow tuxedo to every game.
8. The team features colorful characters like the Banana Nanas (a senior citizen dance team) and the Man-Nanas (a dad bod cheerleading squad).
9. The Bananas aim to make every game an event filled with music, dance, and fun antics.
10. Players break into choreographed dance routines during games, often inspired by Michael Jackson and Britney Spears.

Fan Engagement and Interaction

Fan participation is a cornerstone of the Savannah Bananas' approach. They go above and beyond to make fans feel like part of the action.

11. Fans are encouraged to participate in sing-alongs and other stunts during the game.
12. Both teams are available to sign autographs before, during, and after the game.
13. The pregame show includes various performances and activities that get the crowd excited and involved.
14. The Bananas engage with fans by handing out programs before games and joining conga lines in the stands.
15. The team serves specialty drinks like Savannah Banana Beer and Banana Split Cream Soda.

Banana Ball and Unique Rules

The Savannah Bananas play a modified version of baseball called Banana Ball, which includes several unique rules designed to make the game more exciting.

16. Every inning is worth one point, except for the last inning where every run counts.
17. No new inning can be started after 1 hour and 50 minutes.
18. If a hitter steps out of the box, it’s a strike.
19. Bunting is not allowed; if a hitter bunts, they are ejected from the game.
20. Batters can steal first base on any pitch.
21. No walks are allowed; if a pitcher throws ball four, it becomes a sprint.
22. No mound visits are allowed.
23. If a fan catches a foul ball, it’s an out.
24. In case of a tie after two hours, the game goes into a Showdown Tiebreaker where the hitter must score.

Touring and Community Involvement

The Bananas are not confined to their home stadium. They take their show on the road and are deeply involved in their community.

25. For most of the year, the Bananas play at their home stadium, but in the spring, they embark on a touring schedule.
26. The Bananas have their own opposing team, the Party Animals, which they bring with them on tour.
27. The Bananas are involved in various charitable activities, partnering with hundreds of schools, churches, and nonprofits.
28. They have raised over half a million dollars for great causes through 50/50 raffles at every game.
29. The team has a strong social media presence, with over 250,000 people experiencing their shows throughout the year.

Special Events and Former MLB Players

The Bananas host special events and often feature former Major League Baseball stars, adding to the excitement and credibility of the team.

30. The Bananas often feature former MLB stars in their lineup, including Bill "The Spaceman" Lee, Johnny Damon, Eric Byrnes, Jonny Gomes, and Josh Reddick.
31. The Bananas play in over 30 different stadiums across the country during their touring schedule.
32. The team employs various strategies to engage fans, including interactive games, contests, and activities.
33. The Bananas sell a wide range of merchandise, including yellow-plaid kilts and team-branded apparel.
34. The Bananas have raised over half a million dollars for various charitable causes through their 50/50 raffles and other fundraising activities.

Jesse Cole’s Vision and Leadership

Owner Jesse Cole's vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the Bananas into what they are today.

35. Jesse Cole's vision for the team was to create a fun-focused, fan-focused, and family-focused experience.
36. Each game is designed to be a unique experience, from the pregame show to the post-game activities.
37. Players are available for autograph sessions during the game, adding an interactive element to the experience.
38. Fans are encouraged to participate in various contests and activities during the game.
39. The Bananas host special events throughout the season, such as themed nights and charity events.

Historic Grayson Stadium and Fan Experience

Historic Grayson Stadium is more than just a venue; it's an integral part of the Bananas' charm and fan experience.

40. The team renovated Historic Grayson Stadium to make it more fan-friendly, featuring all-inclusive concessions and an ad-free experience.
41. Fans can sign the Fan Wall in right field, leaving their mark on the team's history.
42. The Bananas are deeply involved in the local community, participating in school functions and charitable events.
43. The Bananas play 30 home games and 53 away games from March to September each year.
44. In their first year, the Bananas won the Coastal Plain League Championship.

Innovations and Future Plans

The Bananas continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what a baseball team can be.

45. In 2022, the Bananas left the Coastal Plain League to play Banana Ball full-time.
46. The Bananas recruit and pay top talent from across the country to ensure competitive and entertaining games.
47. The Bananas now field two independent professional teams: The Savannah Bananas and The Party Animals.
48. The Bananas have introduced several innovations to the game of baseball, including the Showdown Tiebreaker rule.
49. Players are actively involved in creating the entertainment experience, participating in dance routines and engaging with fans.
50. Historic Grayson Stadium is equipped with all-inclusive concessions, ensuring every fan has a satisfying dining experience during the game.

The Savannah Bananas: A Game-Changer in Baseball

The Savannah Bananas have redefined what it means to enjoy a baseball game. From their vibrant yellow uniforms to their quirky rules like Banana Ball, they’ve turned traditional baseball into a must-see event. Their focus on fan engagement, with choreographed dances, autograph sessions, and interactive contests, makes every game a unique experience. The team’s commitment to community involvement and charitable efforts shows they’re more than just about fun—they care about making a difference. With a strong social media presence and a touring schedule that takes them across the country, the Bananas have captured the hearts of fans nationwide. Whether you’re a baseball enthusiast or just looking for a good time, the Savannah Bananas offer an unforgettable experience that keeps fans coming back for more.