Former Brewer set to join Savannah Bananas' league in 2026

Some serious talent is heading to "Banana Ball" next year.
Washington Nationals v Milwaukee Brewers
Washington Nationals v Milwaukee Brewers | John Fisher/GettyImages

Over the past decade, “Banana Ball”, which originated from a team based in Georgia called the Savannah Bananas, has surged in popularity, selling out major stadiums across the country. Its fast-paced, entertainment-driven style has fueled its rapid rise, and now, in 2026, it will debut an inaugural 60-game season.

With Banana Ball expanding, new teams were added, leading to the league’s first-ever draft. Going first overall was former Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr., selected by the Indianapolis Clowns. He becomes the first former MLB star to commit to Banana Ball on a full-time basis.

Former Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr is joining Savanna Bananas league in a full-time role

According to a report from ESPN, Bradley Jr. is taking his career in a new direction, becoming the latest high-profile player to join the Savannah Bananas’ fast-growing Banana Ball league in a full-time role. His move marks a major milestone for the emerging circuit, which continues to attract big crowds as it blends baseball with high-energy entertainment.

Jackie Bradley Jr. becomes first ex-MLB star to commit full time to Banana Ball

For Bradley Jr., his move to Banana Ball offers an opportunity to continue playing the game he loves. He spent 2025 out of the sport, after previously spending the 2024 season in the minor leagues and last appearing in the big leagues in 2023.

Bradley Jr. spent the 2021 season with the Brewers after signing a two-year, $24 million free-agent deal, but he was traded back to the Boston Red Sox following a dreadful year at the plate. Boston, the organization where he first established himself as a major leaguer, reacquired him in a deal that sent Milwaukee Hunter Renfroe, and was completed just before the 2021 offseason lockout took place.

While Bradley Jr.’s time in Milwaukee was brief, his move to Banana Ball becomes a recognizable bridge between the traditional big-league game and this rapidly rising entertainment-driven style. For Brewers fans who remember his time patrolling the outfield, his jump to Banana Ball offers a unique chance to follow a familiar face in a popular setting.

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