The MLB should learn from the Savannah Bananas

The MLB Should Learn from the Savannah Bananas

The Savannah Bananas have been making headlines, selling out every game since 2016, with over 2 million fans still on the waiting list! While traditional teams compete for bigger stadiums, the Bananas have taken a completely different approach—and it's working. Here’s how their fan-first philosophy is shaking up the world of baseball.

What is Banana Ball?

Founder Jesse Cole introduced Banana Ball, a fast-paced, fun version of baseball that puts fans at the center of the experience. While the MLB focuses on traditional rules, the Bananas are making baseball more entertaining with fresh innovations.

Here’s how Banana Ball stands out:

1. Fan-first approach Even one of their rules says that foul balls caught by fans are counted as outs.

2. Performances and stunts: Banana Ball isn’t just about the sport—it’s an experience, with circus-like acts and dance-offs keeping fans engaged.

3. No more boring baseball: The Bananas cut out the parts of baseball that frustrate fans—there’s no stepping out of the batter's box, no bunting, and games never last more than two hours.

Not Just for Show—These Are Real Players

Contrary to what some may think, Banana Ball games aren't scripted. These players have competed at high levels, with many having a professional baseball background. Their fun approach doesn’t diminish their incredible skills—watch out for some of the best defensive plays you’ll see!

A Financial Home Run

The Savannah Bananas’ focus on fans is paying off big time—both on the field and financially. Here are some eye-opening figures that prove their unique approach works:

1. The team's estimated annual revenue of $51 million and $225,500 per employee, are outperforming traditional minor league teams. It even shows a revenue per employee that's comparable to Major League Baseball franchises.

2. They pull over $10 million from ticket sales during their world tour, plus another $2.1 million from their home games. Additional revenue also comes from merchandise, fan experiences, and special events. 

3. In one game at Victory Field in Indy, they’re set to earn an extra $388,323 on top of ticket sales. To put this in perspective, the Indianapolis Indians make an additional $191,483 from their home games. Including both ticket sales and extra revenue, the Indians total $347,408 per game. Meanwhile, the Bananas are bringing in a total of $744,073 for a single game at that venue.

A Social Media Powerhouse

The Bananas aren't just winning on the field; they’re dominating on social media. Their unique blend of baseball and entertainment has earned them:

• 8.8 million TikTok followers

• 2.7 million Instagram followers

• 1.71 million YouTube subscribers

• 2.4 million Facebook followers

• 220 million TikTok likes!

Their viral moments and fan-centered content are drawing in a whole new generation of baseball lovers.

What Can MLB Learn?

The Savannah Bananas didn’t focus on fame or money. Their mission was simple: create an unforgettable experience for the fans. And it worked. Here’s what the MLB can take away:

• Put fans at the center of the experience.

• Keep games exciting and fast-paced.

• Use social media to engage a broader audience.

If baseball is going to thrive in the future, it might just need a little bit of Banana Ball inspiration.

The Savannah Bananas are changing the game, with every match sold out and millions of fans waiting for tickets. As they grow, they’re adding new teams like the Party Animals and Firefighters to their roster, ensuring their unique brand of baseball keeps expanding.

Want more updates on how teams like the Savannah Bananas are transforming the game? Stay tuned by following our newsletter for the latest stories!