Banana Ball returns to KC to face team with area ties
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KQTV) -- The Savannah Bananas and its unique form of sport, 'Banana Ball,' returned to Kauffman Stadium this weekend with a newer team to its league, the Indianapolis Clowns.
The Indianapolis Clowns, inspired by the historic Negro Leagues barnstorming team, joined the Banana Ball Championship League (BBCL) last year. This weekend marked their first time headlining a Major League Baseball stadium since the team's revival, highlighting the league's growth.
During their KC visit, both teams toured the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum at 1616 East 18th Street. The visit deeply impacted Clowns pitcher and entertainer Fisher Polydoroff, who portrays a player from the original team.
"Many Kansas City natives know the story of the Indianapolis Clowns and our history as a Negro League team. We also had the opportunity to meet Bob Kendrick, who guided us through the museum with his engaging storytelling. The experience has been meaningful so far," Polydoroff shared.
While familiar faces filled the Savannah Bananas roster, the Clowns showcased many notable names from the past 25 years. On Sunday, former Little League pitcher Mo'ne Davis, ex-MLB player Jackie Bradley Jr., and Phillies legend Ryan Howard (as a base coach) participated wearing navy blue and red.
The Bananas, known since the start of this unique version of the game, also returned.
Noah Niznik, excited to return home, is familiar with Busch Stadium, home of the Cardinals, but was thrilled to play again in Missouri with Banana Ball fans.
"I'm from Saint Louis, so it feels like home. You see familiar things here, and being in my home state is special," Niznik said. "The fountains, the highway view, and the stadium's bowl shape add to the unmatched energy here."
The weekend concluded with the Bananas securing a 4-2 victory over Indianapolis, avenging their Saturday loss and capping off a significant return to Kansas City.
