Jackie Bradley Jr. is taking an exciting new step in his career. The former major leaguer and 2018 World Series champion was picked first by the Indianapolis Clowns in the inaugural Banana Ball player draft. This makes him the first former MLB player to fully commit to Banana Ball.
Bradley, an All-Star in 2016 and a Gold Glove winner in 2018, shared that he decided to join Banana Ball just days before the draft. His eldest daughter loves the game, which drew him to make a special appearance for the Savannah Bananas at Fenway Park. After that game, Jesse Cole, the founder of Banana Ball, reached out to him about joining the Clowns.
The Clowns have an impressive history. They were part of the Negro Leagues, known for their entertainment style similar to the Harlem Globetrotters. Notably, they signed Hank Aaron for his first professional contract and were pioneers in including women players like Mamie Johnson, Toni Stone, and Connie Morgan.
Originally launched in 1935, the Clowns disbanded in 1989. Recently, they were revived under Cole’s vision, marking their return in the upcoming 60-game Banana Ball Championship League starting in 2026. Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, stated that partnering with the league provides an incredible chance to educate fans about the rich history of the Negro Leagues.
Bradley sees the Clowns as vital in connecting the pre-integration era of Black baseball to today’s game. He expressed his desire to help inspire future generations of African American players. “I want my legacy to be tied to this club,” he said.
Though Bradley has left the door open for a return to MLB, he’s enjoying the present. He last played in the majors in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals. “If an opportunity comes up, I would consider it, but I’m very content where I am,” he added.
Joining the Clowns could signal a new direction for Banana Ball, attracting other retired players looking for fun and a more relaxed schedule. Cole mentioned, “Jackie’s a trendsetter, and he might inspire others to explore this path after their careers.”
The evolution of Banana Ball has been fast-paced, quickly gaining popularity since its start in 2022. They anticipate reaching 3.2 million fans next year, showcasing the unique blend of entertainment and sport.
Bradley aims to make the most out of this experience, cherishing every moment of play. This chapter could not only reshape his career but also continue the legacy of the Clowns and the spirit of Black baseball.
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