The Journal: The Game Making Baseball Fans Go Bananas

Episode Release Date: August 8, 2025
Hosts: Ryan Knutson and Jessica Mendoza
Produced by The Wall Street Journal & Spotify Studios

Introduction

In this episode of The Journal, hosts Ryan Knutson and Jessica Mendoza dive into the vibrant world of Banana Ball, a reinvention of America's beloved pastime that is captivating fans with its high-energy and entertaining approach. The episode explores how Banana Ball is transforming the traditional baseball experience, drawing large crowds, and fostering a new generation of passionate fans.

The Birth of Banana Ball

Jessica Mendoza sets the scene by recounting her visit to a Banana Ball game at Baltimore's Camden Yards. "It was a Friday night in Baltimore. Shockingly temperate. It was the perfect night for a ball game," she describes (00:09). The atmosphere was electric, surpassing the usual baseball game experience.

Ryan Reynolds introduces Banana Ball as more than just baseball. "The phenomenon Jason was there to see wasn't the Orioles. It wasn't even really baseball. Jason was there for banana ball," he explains (00:36). Banana Ball merges the traditional elements of baseball with circus-like entertainment, creating a spectacle that appeals to a broader audience.

What is Banana Ball?

Jessica Mendoza elaborates on the essence of Banana Ball: "Banana ball is a fast paced circus like short attention span attack on your senses. It is really all about entertainment maximization at all times" (01:03). This innovative format addresses concerns that baseball has become monotonous by injecting constant excitement and variety into the game.

Ryan Reynolds further describes the gameplay: "Banana ball is a lot like baseball. There are pitchers and batters, infielders and outfielders. But the players do more than just play ball. They wear crazy costumes, they cartwheel and dance and perform all kinds of tricks" (01:24). The infusion of performances transforms each game into a unique and engaging experience.

Pre-Game Festivities

The pre-game activities are a significant part of the Banana Ball experience. Jessica Mendoza notes, "The pre game is a key part of the banana ball experience. There are dozens of events that can happen on the field before the game starts" (05:48). Activities range from dancing with the Banana Nanas, a senior citizen dance team, to baby crawling races, ensuring that fans of all ages are entertained long before the game begins.

Ryan Reynolds emphasizes the fan-first mantra: "That's one of their mantras, you know, that's a banana ball mantra, which is fans first" (06:16). This approach prioritizes creating a family-friendly environment, making the game accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Game Experience

Once the game starts, Banana Ball maintains its high-energy vibe. Jessica Mendoza explains, "First thing you see, and it's a real jolt to your system, is a clock... that says two hours and ticks down from that" (06:45). This time limit ensures the game remains fast-paced, contrasting with the often lengthy traditional baseball matches.

Jason Gay shares his excitement: "Banana Nation. It is time" (06:39). The players, described as entertainers with baseball skills, perform tricks and stunts without compromising the competitive nature of the game. Jessica Mendoza adds, "These players are entertainers. You know, many of them are very, very talented prospects and ex prospects but they all have a little bit of show biz in them" (07:07).

The emphasis on both skill and spectacle keeps fans engaged. For example, a fantasy flip catch or a backflip by a player adds an element of surprise and delight. Jessica Mendoza highlights, "It's really a good game. It's not like just jokes and sloppy ball. It's really a good game" (08:17).

Fan Engagement and Community

Banana Ball has cultivated a passionate and engaged fanbase. Jessica Mendoza observes, "There are some real super fans of banana ball. People who had jerseys of players, people had made homemade signs" (10:07). The team has effectively utilized social media to build its following, boasting over 10 million TikTok followers, surpassing even major teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers (11:11).

Jessica Mendoza also points out the economic impact: "Local hotels are filling up. There's an economic impact upon the host cities. People are coming from far and wide to see it" (10:44). This widespread appeal not only enhances the fan experience but also benefits the host communities economically.

Building the Brand: Insights from Jesse Cole

Jesse Cole, the founder of Banana Ball, provides an insider's perspective on the creation and growth of the league. "After the break, we started with nothing. We were failing. It wasn't until we said, whatever's normal, do the exact opposite" (11:27). This contrarian approach led to the unique and entertaining format that defines Banana Ball today.

Jesse emphasizes the importance of fun and innovation: "We've been described as the greatest show in sports. And so it is fun and joy. That's the heart of everything" (15:28). The continuous effort to introduce new ideas and spectacles ensures that each game offers something fresh and exciting.

When asked about the authenticity of the competition, Jesse reassures listeners: "The biggest comparison we get is the Harlem Globetrotters. But the Globe charters always win... what happens on the field, you can't script someone hitting a 420ft ball. That's not that easy to script" (16:07). This commitment to genuine competition distinguishes Banana Ball from purely scripted performances.

Business Model and Growth Strategy

Banana Ball's business model focuses on direct fan engagement and avoiding traditional revenue streams like hefty ticket fees and advertising. Jesse Cole explains, "Our tickets are 40, 50 and 60 dollars with no ticket fees, no convenience fees, no service fees" (16:41). By selling directly to fans and utilizing platforms like YouTube for live streaming, Banana Ball prioritizes long-term fan loyalty over immediate profits.

Jesse Cole also contrasts Banana Ball with major sports leagues: "We're playing the long game. We're interested in long term fans over short term profits and that's different than most businesses" (16:41). This sustainable approach has allowed Banana Ball to grow steadily while maintaining its core values of fun and fan-first engagement.

Impact on Traditional Sports and Future Prospects

The success of Banana Ball has had a ripple effect on traditional baseball. Jessica Mendoza notes, "I don't think it can be directly attributed to banana ball, but some of the pace of play alterations that Major League Baseball has made in the last couple years... I think they have banana parts to them" (17:14). Innovations such as the pitch clock and limiting mound visits reflect a shift towards a more engaging and faster-paced game, inspired in part by Banana Ball's popularity.

Jessica Mendoza further discusses the broader implications for sports: "Sports has been slow to react to [family alienation]. They really oriented into the corporate fan experience... I do worry about the effect that it has on the subsequent generations" (18:23). Banana Ball's family-friendly and affordable approach presents a model that other sports could adopt to rebuild and expand their fanbases.

Conclusion

Banana Ball represents a bold reinvention of baseball, blending athletic competition with continuous entertainment to create an immersive and enjoyable experience for fans. Through innovative gameplay, dynamic pre-game activities, and a strong focus on fan engagement, Banana Ball is not only attracting new audiences but also influencing changes within traditional sports. As Jesse Cole envisions, the long-term goal is to sustain and grow this unique form of baseball, ensuring that the joy and fun at the heart of the game endure for future generations.

Notable Quotes:

• "Banana ball is a fast paced circus like short attention span attack on your senses." — Jessica Mendoza (01:03)
• "Our tickets are 40, 50 and 60 dollars with no ticket fees, no convenience fees, no service fees." — Jesse Cole (16:41)
• "It's really a good game. It's not like just jokes and sloppy ball. It's really a good game." — Jessica Mendoza (08:17)

This comprehensive exploration of Banana Ball highlights its innovative approach to reviving baseball, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and those interested in the evolving landscape of sports entertainment.