The Savannah Bananas are set to venture into international territory in 2027, marking the debut of Banana Ball overseas. Owner Jesse Cole revealed that the Savannah Bananas, alongside five other teams known for their lively brand of baseball entertainment, will be making stops in Canada and Mexico next year. In a significant expansion, Banana Ball games will take place in 23 Major League Baseball stadiums and 10 football stadiums in 2027.
Reflecting on the unexpected success of Banana Ball since its inception in 2016, Cole expressed his astonishment at the game’s increasing popularity. Initially conceived to spark fan interest in baseball at the historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Georgia, the concept has evolved substantially over the years.
The 2027 schedule unveiled on ESPN2 includes international stops in Monterrey, Mexico, on February 5-6, and Tijuana, Mexico, on February 12-13. Additionally, fans can anticipate Banana Ball action at Rogers Centre in Toronto on August 14-15 and two visits to Winnipeg on August 26 and August 28.
After a decade of planning, Cole emphasized the significance of the international tour dates, underscoring the culmination of a long-term vision. In 2023, the Savannah Bananas received recognition at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, with an exhibit dedicated to their innovative approach to the sport. Known for their unconventional antics like pitchers throwing while on stilts and unique fan engagement strategies, the Savannah Bananas have captured the hearts of a younger fan base.
A new twist will be introduced to Banana Ball on June 26 at Notre Dame Stadium, where two baseball fields will be set up on opposite corners of the football facility, with teams swapping fields every inning to provide all spectators with a close-up view of the action. Disney has also produced a documentary chronicling the rise of the Savannah Bananas and Banana Ball, set to premiere at Atlanta’s Truist Park on June 12.
With plans to tour 79 stadiums in 74 cities, including minor league venues, as part of the 2027 Banana Ball Championship League, Cole anticipates attracting approximately 4.3 million fans to the games.