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Savannah Bananas Announce 45-State Mega Tour and Historic New Teams — “We Were Told It Would Fail, But the Fans Proved Otherwise”

From selling a handful of tickets to filling NFL stadiums — Jesse Cole’s Banana Ball empire expands with two new teams and a 45-state U.S. tour in 2026.

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Savannah Bananas Announce 45-State Tour and Two New Teams for 2026
Savannah Bananas owner Jesse Cole announces a 45-state Banana Ball tour and two new teams for 2026 — redefining baseball with fun, flair, and history.

When Jesse Cole (LinkedIn) started the Savannah Bananas in 2016, few believed the team would become a cultural phenomenon. The former Coastal Plain League collegiate club struggled to sell even a few tickets in its first season. Cole and his wife sold their home, drained their savings, and slept on an air mattress just to keep their dream alive.

But nine years later, that dream has turned into a nationwide movement. With Banana Ball — an electrifying mix of baseball, showmanship, and heart — the Bananas have sold out 17 Major League Baseball stadiums, drawn over 2 million fans, and built a reputation as America’s most entertaining team.

And now, they’re going even bigger.


A 45-State Tour That Redefines the Game

On Thursday, Cole announced on ESPN2 that the Banana Ball Championship League will debut in 2026, expanding to 75 stadiums across 45 states — including 14 MLB parks and 10 football stadiums.

Two of those venues are among the largest in the country: Texas A&M’s Kyle Field (capacity 102,000) and Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium (capacity 101,000). Even smaller cities will get a taste of the spectacle, like Dehler Park in Billings, Montana, which will host just 3,000 fans — the smallest crowd in Banana Ball history.

“We were told it would fail. That it wasn’t real baseball,” said Cole. “But you know what I focus on? The fans who love it. We want Banana Ball to reach every corner of America.”

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New Teams: Loco Beach Coconuts and Indianapolis Clowns

The league’s expansion also introduces two new teams with powerful stories and historic resonance.

1. Loco Beach Coconuts — led by Shane Victorino
Two-time World Series champion Shane Victorino will serve as the “prime-time coach” for the Loco Beach Coconuts, a team inspired by surf culture and Hawaiian flair.

“That island pride, that aloha spirit — it’s in everything I do,” Victorino said. “Banana Ball is about heart, fun, and bringing joy back to the game. This is a dream.”

The Coconuts will play primarily in coastal regions, promising to “bring the beach” to stadiums nationwide with a bright, tropical theme.


2. Indianapolis Clowns — honoring Negro Leagues history
The second addition, the Indianapolis Clowns, carries deep baseball heritage. Originally formed in 1935, the Clowns were part of the Negro Leagues, combining athletic excellence with comedic flair — often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball.

They were also the first professional team to sign Hank Aaron , one of baseball’s most legendary figures.

In partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, led by president Bob Kendrick , Cole revived the Clowns to pay tribute to the pioneers who made baseball inclusive and entertaining.

“The rebirth of the Indianapolis Clowns is historically relevant,” Kendrick said. “It honors a team that was at the forefront of blending baseball and entertainment — something the Bananas have now taken to new heights.”

Former NL MVP and World Series champion Ryan Howard (Wikipedia) will serve as the Clowns’ prime-time coach.

“They were rock stars before the world called ballplayers that,” Howard said. “Flash, innovation, community — that’s what the Negro Leagues brought to the game, and that’s what Banana Ball is all about.”

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The Championship League: A New Era of Fun and Competition

The 2026 Banana Ball Championship League will feature the Bananas, Firefighters, Party Animals, Tailgaters, and the two new teams.

The season kicks off in February with 11 preseason games, followed by a 50-game regular season from April through September. The Banana Bowl, the league’s grand finale, is set for October 10, 2026.

Cole also introduced the “Equalizer Rule” — a creative twist where teams can earn extra points for executing more trick plays.

“We want every inning to matter,” Cole said. “This isn’t just about fun. It’s about competition, energy, and innovation.”


Fans First: No Price Hike, Just More Smiles

Despite skyrocketing demand, Cole confirmed that ticket prices will remain the same. The Bananas expect over 3 million ticket lottery sign-ups in the first 48 hours after the announcement — yet Cole insists the game should remain accessible.

“We’re not raising prices,” he said flatly. “This is about fans — that’s why we exist.”

Cole’s vision extends beyond U.S. borders, with plans to take Banana Ball global. But for now, he says, the focus remains on America.

“There are still towns across this country that have never seen Banana Ball,” he added. “We want every fan to be within a few hours’ drive of the magic.”


A Legacy That’s Just Getting Started

From humble beginnings to nationwide stardom, the Savannah Bananas have rewritten the rulebook on what sports entertainment can be.

Cole’s philosophy, rooted in Fans First Entertainment, has transformed baseball into a joyful carnival — one where the crowd cheers as much for a backflip catch as for a home run.

“We’ve been criticized every step of the way,” Cole said. “But we’ve built something that makes people smile. That’s what matters.”

And as the yellow suits, dance routines, and wild celebrations hit 45 states next year, one thing is clear: Banana Ball isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving.
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

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Brazil Destroys South Korea 5–0 as Estevão and Rodrygo Shine with Stunning Braces

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil delivered a footballing masterclass in Seoul — with young star Estevão and Rodrygo Goes leading a 5–0 demolition of South Korea ahead of the 2026 World Cup

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Brazil 5–0 South Korea: Estevão and Rodrygo Lead a Samba Show Under Ancelotti
Estevão Willian celebrates his brace with Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior as Brazil crushes South Korea 5–0 in Seoul under Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership.

SEOUL, South Korea — Brazil reminded the football world why they are still the masters of the beautiful game. In a dazzling display at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, the Seleção, coached by Carlo Ancelotti (Wikipedia), crushed South Korea 5–0 in a friendly that felt more like a statement of intent for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The night belonged to two of Brazil’s brightest talents — Estevão Willian (Wikipedia), the 17-year-old Chelsea prodigy, and Rodrygo Goes (Wikipedia), the elegant Real Madrid forward. Both scored twice, while Vinícius Júnior (Wikipedia) sealed the rout with a trademark solo goal.

“We wanted to play with joy again — to make football look easy,” said Ancelotti post-match. “This team has the energy of youth and the discipline of champions. That’s a dangerous mix.”


Estevão Opens the Show with a Touch of Class

It took just 15 minutes for the teenage sensation Estevão to announce himself. Set up by a brilliant through ball from Bruno Guimarães (Wikipedia), the Chelsea wonderkid darted into the box and calmly slotted past goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-Woo to make it 1–0.

The finish was pure Brazilian artistry — confidence, timing, and flair all in one motion.

Fans across social media immediately erupted with excitement, many comparing Estevão’s poise to a young Neymar Jr. (Wikipedia).

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Rodrygo Doubles the Lead with Real Madrid Precision

Brazil’s second goal was a masterpiece in movement and precision. After a sequence of sharp passes, Rodrygo picked up the ball just inside the box, glided past his marker, and curled a right-footed shot into the top corner in the 41st minute.

The strike oozed class — a reminder of why the Real Madrid star is being groomed as Brazil’s next big attacking leader.

By halftime, Brazil had completely silenced the Seoul crowd.


The Second Half: More Goals, More Magic

Barely two minutes into the second half, Estevão struck again — this time cutting in from the right and firing a low left-footed drive beyond Jo Hyeon-Woo’s reach.

The celebration said it all: arms wide open, soaking in the applause from Brazilian fans in the stands.

Then came Rodrygo’s second — a well-timed strike from the center of the box, once again orchestrated through Bruno Guimarães, whose passing and vision dictated Brazil’s tempo.

“It’s fun to play with these young guys,” said Rodrygo afterward. “They bring hunger. They play with no fear, and that’s what Brazil needs.”


Vinícius Júnior Puts the Cherry on Top

If the night needed a perfect ending, Vinícius Júnior delivered it in the 77th minute. Picking up the ball near midfield, the Real Madrid winger accelerated past two defenders, cut inside with his left foot to shake off the last challenge, and finished coolly with his right.

It was classic Vinícius — flair, speed, and composure — a goal worthy of highlight reels around the world.

The 5–0 victory wasn’t just about dominance; it was about rediscovering Brazil’s identity — attacking football filled with smiles, swagger, and samba rhythm.

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Ancelotti’s Brazil: Back to Joyful Football

This match marked another step forward for Carlo Ancelotti, who took over as Brazil’s head coach earlier this year. Under his calm guidance, the team looks balanced between youthful energy and tactical discipline.

With Estevão emerging as a breakout star and Rodrygo and Vinícius already global icons, the Seleção appears ready to enter the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with renewed confidence.

“We played the kind of football that Brazil is known for — beautiful, fast, and fun,” Ancelotti said. “But more than that, we played together. That’s what matters most.”


Brazil’s Road Ahead

After the win, Brazil fans online began dreaming again — of another World Cup title, of new heroes like Estevão carrying the torch, and of a team that once again embodies the spirit of Joga Bonito.

Their next tests will come in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, where consistency, not flair, will be the true measure of this team’s evolution.

For now, though, Brazil’s message to the world was loud and clear: the kings of football are smiling again.
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

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Costa Rica Dominates But Fails to Score — Draw Against Honduras Puts World Cup Dream on Hold

La Tricolor controlled possession and hit the crossbar but couldn’t find the net in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Honduras in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

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Costa Rica vs Honduras: Frustrating Draw Keeps World Cup Dream Alive — For Now
Costa Rica’s Álvaro Zamora reacts after hitting the crossbar in a tense 0-0 draw against Honduras, leaving their World Cup qualifying hopes hanging in the balance.

SAN PEDRO SULA, HONDURAS — It was a night filled with tension, precision, and heartbreak for Costa Rica’s national football team. Despite dominating the play and coming within inches of victory, La Tricolor could only manage a goalless draw against Honduras at the packed Francisco Morazán Stadium, leaving their 2026 World Cup Qualifier campaign delicately poised.

For long stretches, Costa Rica looked the better side — disciplined in defense, structured in midfield, and assertive in attack — yet the scoreline refused to reflect their superiority.

“Costa Rica fell asleep, and the Central Americans caught up with us,” said former international Christian Bolaños (Wikipedia), capturing the frustration many fans felt after the final whistle.


A First Half of Tension and Tactical Caution

The opening 45 minutes were a masterclass in defensive organization. Both sides approached the match with caution, aware that a single mistake could change everything.

Alexis Gamboa and veteran defender Kendall Waston anchored Costa Rica’s backline with authority, completely neutralizing Honduran forwards Romell Quioto and Jorge Benguché.

The defensive trio — Juan Pablo Vargas, Waston, and Gamboa — moved in perfect synchrony, showing why Costa Rica remains one of Central America’s toughest defensive units.

However, the only weak link appeared on the right wing, where Jeyland Mitchell struggled to keep up with the tempo. His misplaced passes and lapses in positioning gave Honduras rare glimpses of space to exploit.

Still, neither side truly threatened. Costa Rica’s tactical balance kept them safe — but also toothless.

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Second-Half Dominance Without Reward

If the first half was about caution, the second was about conviction. Miguel “Piojo” Herrera ’s men came out determined to seize control — and they did. Costa Rica dictated possession, pressed higher, and camped in the Honduran half.

The moment of heartbreak came midway through the second half. Defender Francisco Calvo made a bursting run down the left, slicing open the Honduran defense before sending in a low cross to Álvaro Zamora. His shot thundered off the crossbar, leaving the entire stadium gasping in silence.

It was, without question, the clearest chance of the night — and perhaps the defining moment that kept Costa Rica from victory.

“We controlled the game, but we lacked that finishing touch,” Herrera admitted post-match. “The players gave everything, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t want to go in.”


A Missed Opportunity in the Standings

The draw means Costa Rica now sits third in Group C, collecting just three points from three matches. Honduras holds second place with five points, while Haiti — the surprise package of the group — leads on goal difference.

For Costa Rica, who famously reached the quarterfinals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, this campaign has started slower than expected. Their usual flair and rhythm in attack were missing, and without a true playmaker to bridge defense and offense, the team struggled to break lines consistently.

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What Comes Next: A Must-Win Clash Against Nicaragua

All eyes now turn to next Monday’s showdown at the National Stadium in San José, where Costa Rica will host Nicaragua. The match is shaping up to be a must-win encounter if La Tricolor hopes to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

“We can’t keep leaving points on the road,” said forward Manfred Ugalde . “We have to show our strength at home and start climbing the table.”

With experienced players like Waston and Calvo leading the backline, and young talents like Ugalde and Zamora searching for form, Costa Rica still has the ingredients for success — but time is running short.


A Familiar Story for La Tricolor

This draw felt like déjà vu for Costa Rican fans: the control, the composure, the missed chances, and ultimately, the frustration.

They were tactically sound but lacked the killer instinct that once made them Central America’s dominant force. If they are to return to the world’s biggest stage in North America 2026, they must rediscover that spark — starting now.
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

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“Where’s My MVP?” — Remembering Boston Red Sox Legend Mike Greenwell, The Gator Who Played With Heart

Former Boston Red Sox outfielder and two-time All-Star Mike Greenwell passes away at 62, leaving behind a legacy of grit, humor, and pure baseball passion.

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Boston Red Sox Legend Mike Greenwell Dies at 62 — Remembering “The Gator”
Baseball legend Mike Greenwell, the beloved Boston Red Sox outfielder known as “The Gator,” passes away at 62, leaving behind a legacy of heart and humor.

BOSTON, Massachusetts — Baseball lost one of its true gentlemen this week.
Mike Greenwell (Wikipedia), the fiery outfielder who spent his entire 12-year career with the Boston Red Sox, passed away on Thursday at the age of 62. His wife, Tracy Greenwell, confirmed that he died at Boston’s General Hospital, following a courageous battle with medullary thyroid cancer.

“With a heavy heart, I lost my best friend today,” Tracy wrote on social media. “It was Mike’s time to be an angel. We are forever grateful for the life he has given us.”

Nicknamed “The Gator”, Greenwell wasn’t just known for his big swings and clutch hits — he was known for his heart, his humor, and his deep loyalty to his roots in Lee County, Florida, where he later served as a county commissioner.


From Fort Myers to Fenway: The Making of “The Gator”

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, and raised in Fort Myers, Florida, Greenwell’s journey to the majors felt like a classic American baseball story. A standout at North Fort Myers High School, he excelled in both baseball and football before being drafted by the Red Sox in 1982.

He made his MLB debut in 1985 and quickly became a fan favorite. By 1987, he had taken over the Red Sox left-field position previously held by legends Ted Williams , Carl Yastrzemski , and Jim Rice — three Hall of Famers whose shadows loomed large over Fenway Park.

“He had big shoes to fill in left field, and he did a damn good job,” said former teammate Bob Stanley . “He played hard and never forgot where he came from — just a great guy. We’ll all miss him.”

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The 1988 Season: His MVP Moment

Greenwell’s best season came in 1988, when he hit .325 with 22 home runs, 119 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. He even hit for the cycle that September and delivered a then-record 23 game-winning RBIs.
That incredible performance made him the runner-up for the American League MVP Award, losing out to Jose Canseco .

Years later, when Canseco admitted to steroid use, Greenwell jokingly asked:

“Where’s my MVP?”

It was classic Mike — direct, honest, and funny.


The Gator’s Legacy Beyond Baseball

Greenwell’s nickname, “The Gator,” came from a spring training prank when he caught a live alligator, taped its mouth shut, and placed it in a teammate’s locker. It became part of Red Sox folklore — the perfect symbol of his mischievous, fearless personality.

After retiring from baseball in 1996, Greenwell didn’t slow down. He pivoted to auto racing, competing in late-model stock cars and even making two starts in NASCAR’s Truck Series in 2006.

By 2022, he had transitioned into public service, appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as a Lee County Commissioner, where he continued to champion his local community until his passing.

“He was a strong advocate for the people and businesses of Lee County,” the county government said in a statement. “He will be remembered for seeking meaningful solutions to the challenges his community faced.”

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A Teammate Remembered

Greenwell’s passing has drawn tributes from across the baseball world.
Former Red Sox outfielder Dwight Evans shared heartfelt words:

“You always wanted to be around him — I truly enjoyed my time with him. He was a gamer in every sense of the word, and he will be deeply missed.”

Greenwell was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 2008, cementing his place among Boston’s most beloved players. He finished his career with a .303 batting average, 130 home runs, and 726 RBIs — but those numbers only tell part of his story.


The Final Chapter

Even as illness took hold, Greenwell continued to serve his community and inspire those around him with his optimism. His family — wife Tracy and sons Bo and Garrett Greenwell — remember him not only as a baseball legend but as a devoted husband, father, and friend.

His life was a rare blend of passion and purpose — from catching alligators in Florida swamps to chasing fly balls under Fenway lights, from thrilling fans on the field to fighting for his neighbors off it.

“He played hard and lived harder,” one fan wrote online. “A true Red Sox, through and through.”

Mike Greenwell’s story is proof that real heroes wear more than uniforms — they wear heart.
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

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