Banana Ball returned to Connecticut this week, bringing its signature mixture of baseball and entertainment back to Dunkin’ Park in Hartford for the primary time in three years.
The Indianapolis Clowns defeated the Party Animals within the opening recreation of a three-game series Wednesday evening, rallying for a walk-off win within the ninth inning on successful by former Boston Red Sox participant Jackie Bradley Jr.
Fans from Connecticut and throughout the nation gathered for the sport, with many additionally participating in a pregame block occasion earlier than heading into the ballpark.
“You can’t beat the camaraderie, excitement. It’s a great time,” Jason LaForte of Ellington stated.
Banana Ball options a number of distinctive guidelines designed to hold the motion shifting and the gang engaged. Trick performs rely as factors, and any foul ball caught by a fan counts as an out.
The pregame festivities, which included dancing and different skits, additionally energized the gang.
“I love what they’re doing with the game. Makes it more exciting than traditional baseball, but I like the additions,” Mike Szeczyk of Colchester stated.
The pleasure prolonged to the gamers as effectively.
David Griffin, a pitcher for the Indianapolis Clowns who’s from close by Massachusetts, returned to the identical area the place he made his Double-A debut when he performed for the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Griffin has been enjoying Banana Ball for the previous yr.
“It’s awesome to come back here being able to perform in front of family and friends, and I’m throwing tomorrow so I can’t wait to have everybody there,” Griffin stated.
Griffin stated Banana Ball has a rhythm in contrast to conventional baseball.
“The game is moving fast, but it’s also at the same time, it slows down a little bit. You hear all of the music playing in the background, so it feels like you’re in the offseason, like training,” Griffin stated.
Fans stated the nonstop entertainment is a part of what makes Banana Ball stand out.
“It’s fun. It’s engaging every minute. There’s never a down moment,” Jessica Hickey of Simsbury stated.
