The Savannah Bananas, established in 2016, have risen from a quirky startup in Savannah, Georgia, to one of the most recognized and beloved names in American sports. Their unique approach to entertainment-infused baseball—where players perform choreographed dances, fans dictate rules, and the game moves at lightning speed with a two-hour time limit—has transformed the team into a national sensation. Selling out stadiums across the country on their world tours, drawing millions of followers online, and even landing on national television, the Bananas have achieved something no minor league or independent franchise has ever done: they’ve redefined how baseball can be experienced….
“We Will Never Sell the Savannah Bananas or Give Up Control of Banana Ball”: Jesse Cole Stands Firm Against MLB Takeover Rumors.
In a bold and unequivocal statement, Jesse Cole, the visionary founder of the Savannah Bananas, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to keeping his franchise—and its revolutionary brand of baseball known as Banana Ball—independent, despite reports of significant interest from Major League Baseball (MLB). According to industry chatter, MLB executives have expressed curiosity and even floated ideas of acquiring rights to Banana Ball, a fan-first baseball spectacle that has become a cultural phenomenon. But Cole has made it clear: the Bananas are not for sale.
The Savannah Bananas, established in 2016, have risen from a quirky startup in Savannah, Georgia, to one of the most recognized and beloved names in American sports. Their unique approach to entertainment-infused baseball—where players perform choreographed dances, fans dictate rules, and the game moves at lightning speed with a two-hour time limit—has transformed the team into a national sensation. Selling out stadiums across the country on their world tours, drawing millions of followers online, and even landing on national television, the Bananas have achieved something no minor league or independent franchise has ever done: they’ve redefined how baseball can be experienced.
That success has inevitably drawn the attention of MLB, which in recent years has grappled with declining attendance, television viewership struggles, and questions about how to connect with younger fans. Reports suggest that MLB sees Banana Ball not only as a novelty but as a potential lifeline—a new format that could re-energize interest in baseball. Insiders say discussions of partnerships or outright acquisition have been whispered in boardrooms, with figures in the multi-billion-dollar range rumored as possible offers.
But Jesse Cole, known for his trademark yellow tuxedo and unrelenting devotion to fans-first entertainment, isn’t budging.
> “We will never sell the Savannah Bananas. We will never give up control of Banana Ball,” Cole said firmly in a recent interview. “This movement was built by fans, for fans. It’s about joy, energy, connection, and breaking barriers in baseball. You can’t put a price tag on that.”
Cole’s words reflect not only his personal vision but also the deep loyalty of Bananas fans, who have embraced Banana Ball as more than just a game. For many, it’s a community experience, one that challenges traditional sports norms while creating unforgettable memories. From senior citizens breakdancing on the field to players signing autographs mid-game, the Bananas have blurred the line between sport and entertainment in ways that resonate with audiences who may have never attended a conventional baseball game.
Sports analysts note that MLB’s interest is both flattering and telling. While the league has made attempts to speed up its pace of play with rule changes such as pitch clocks and bigger bases, Banana Ball represents a more radical transformation—one that MLB may hesitate to adopt outright but clearly recognizes as innovative. Cole, however, appears content to remain on the outside, charting his own course without compromise.
Fans have responded to the news with overwhelming support. Social media erupted with messages praising Cole’s stance, many using hashtags like #StayBanana and #ForTheFans to signal solidarity. Some even warned that a corporate takeover by MLB could dilute the very spirit that makes the Bananas so special.
Looking ahead, the Savannah Bananas are preparing for yet another nationwide tour, with sold-out dates stretching into 2026. Demand for tickets continues to skyrocket, and their viral videos rack up millions of views within hours of posting. Clearly, the Bananas are thriving precisely because they are different—and Jesse Cole seems determined to keep it that way.
In an era where many sports franchises operate as big business first and community second, the Savannah Bananas are carving out a path that resists conventional pressures. Cole’s latest declaration underscores a simple but powerful message: the Bananas will always belong to the fans, not to the highest bidder.
And if his words hold true, no matter how much money MLB—or anyone else—puts on the table, Banana Ball will remain an independent revolution in baseball.
Would you like me to shape this news article in a traditional press style (objective and journalistic) or in a more Banana-style fun and playful tone that matches Jesse Cole’s brand.