The Game Making Baseball Fans Go Bananas

In this episode of "The Journal," Jessica Mendoza and Jason Gay explore the phenomenon of Banana Ball, a fast-paced, entertainment-focused take on baseball created by Jesse Cole and his wife Emily. The podcast details how Banana Ball, featuring the Savannah Bananas and other teams like the Firefighters, has gained a massive following through social media and word of mouth, offering a family-friendly and affordable alternative to traditional sports entertainment. They discuss the unique rules, pre-game entertainment, and the "fans first, entertain always" mantra that drives the league, as well as its potential influence on Major League Baseball and the broader sports industry. The episode also touches on the business model of Banana Ball, which prioritizes long-term fan engagement over short-term profits, and its impact on host cities.