From Fenway to Banana Ball: Jackie Bradley Jr., 2018 World Series champ, joins Indianapolis Clowns

"The Indianapolis Clowns selected former 11-year MLB pro and 2018 World Series champion Jackie Bradley Jr. with the first pick in the inaugural Banana Ball player draft Thursday night, making Bradley Jr. the first former MLB player to commit to participate full-time in Banana Ball. The former Boston Red Sox outfielder was an All-Star in 2016 and Golden Glove winner in 2018, and told ESPN that his decision to play Banana Ball came together "days ago.""

"With his oldest daughter being a big fan of Banana Ball, Bradley Jr. made an appearance for the Savannah Bananas during a July game at Fenway Park. He called it a great appearance which ultimately led Jesse Cole, founder of Banana Ball, to reach out to him about joining the Clowns. The Clowns have a rich history, serving as the Negro Leagues' version of the Harlem Globetrotters as an exhibition team and signing Hank Aaron to his first professional contract."

"Negro Leagues Baseball Museum president Bob Kendrick said in October that the partnership between the league and museum is "a tremendous opportunity, to not only entertain, but educate fans about the rich history of the Negro Leagues while paying homage to the team that helped influence Banana Ball." Bradley Jr. emphasized the Clowns role in "bridging pre-integration Black baseball to the modern baseball." He called it a perfect fit to join them, saying he wants to help grow the game -- and hopes his legacy is tied to being part of the club."

Jackie Bradley Jr. was selected first overall by the Indianapolis Clowns in the inaugural Banana Ball player draft, becoming the first former MLB player to commit full-time to Banana Ball. Bradley spent 11 MLB seasons, won a World Series in 2018, was a 2016 All-Star and 2018 Gold Glove winner. A July appearance with the Savannah Bananas at Fenway Park, influenced by his daughter, led founder Jesse Cole to recruit him. The Indianapolis Clowns, founded in 1935 and inactive since 1989, have a storied Negro Leagues legacy, including signing Hank Aaron to his first professional contract. The club joins the 60-game 2026 Banana Ball Championship League and aims to entertain, educate fans, and grow the game.

Read at ESPN.com