ESPN doubles down on Banana Ball; schedule includes day at Disneyland - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Steve Henson

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Savannah Bananas, known for their over-the-top baseball spectacles and fan interactions, have secured a groundbreaking partnership with ESPN, ABC, and Disney+. This collaboration includes a 25-game package in 2026, featuring a "Banana Ball Day" at Disneyland and a game at Angel Stadium. Every match will stream on ESPN’s platforms, with select games airing on ABC. The deal underscores the team's rapid growth, as they’ve played in over 40 cities, including NFL and MLB stadiums, drawing massive crowds and generating significant revenue. The Bananas’ popularity stems from their unique blend of entertainment and baseball, attracting sold-out venues and a loyal fan base. Their partnership with ESPN builds on the success of "Bananaland," an ESPN+ series that showcased their quirky style. The new agreement expands their reach, offering games at iconic locations like Disney World and ESPN’s headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut. This deal marks a significant milestone for the Bananas, as they transition from a novelty act to a legitimate sports league. With six teams now part of the Banana Ball Championship League (BBCL), including the Party Animals and Firefighters, the league is poised for even greater success. The BBCL is projected to generate $100 million in revenue this year, driven by merchandising and ticket sales. The Ban

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026