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yesterday

Savannah Bananas Sell Out Chicago Debut at Rate Field

Following a record-setting turnout, the franchise plans new teams, with a multi-team Banana Ball championship scheduled for 2026.

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Former White Sox players A.J. Pierzynski, left, and Mark Buehrle talk as Buehrle takes the mound to throw for the Savannah Bananas in the seventh inning against the Firefighters on Aug. 15, 2025, at Rate Field. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
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September 4, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski (12) talks to starting pitcher Mark Buehrle (right) during the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Overview

  • More than 40,000 fans packed Rate Field for the Bananas’ first Chicago appearance, topping attendance at a concurrent Cubs game.
  • Mark Buehrle took the mound and A.J. Pierzynski crouched behind the plate in a reunion that helped the Bananas defeat the Firefighters 3-2.
  • The Chicago game marked Banana Ball’s debut on truTV and HBO Max, expanding on existing YouTube streams and ESPN network partnerships established earlier on the tour.
  • On-field antics included choreographed dance breaks, a surprise Chance the Rapper concert and fan-driven rules such as sprints on walks and outs for any foul ball caught by spectators.
  • Owner Jesse Cole emphasized the team’s 3.6 million-person waitlist as the franchise prepares new teams and a multi-team Banana Ball championship in 2026.