Tallahassee has been buzzing with excitement as it recently hosted a thrilling baseball event featuring the Savannah Bananas against the Texas Tailgators. This game, held on February 28, 2026, was part of the much-anticipated Banana Ball week and took place in front of a packed crowd of 60,000 to 70,000 enthusiastic fans. The Bananas emerged victorious with a score of 5-3, marking a fantastic season opener for the team. For those who missed the action, video highlights of the game are available online, capturing all the electrifying moments.
Fans were treated to an engaging Meet and Greet event the night before the game, allowing them to connect with players and feel the excitement building in the air. Among the notable attendees was former FAMU player TY Jackson, who expressed his joy at returning to his college town to play. Jackson, who graduated from Florida A&M University in 2024, was instrumental in leading the Rattlers to their first SWAC Championship in 2023 and was known for his vibrant hairstyles and leadership qualities.
Banana Ball Tour Highlights
This year’s Banana Ball Tour in Tallahassee ran from February 26 to February 28, taking place at two iconic venues: Dick Howser Stadium and Doak Campbell Stadium. The event kicked off with an exciting game between the Firefighters and Loco Beach Coconuts on February 26, followed by the Party Animals versus the Indianapolis Clowns on February 27. Each game featured pre-game festivities, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the weekend.
On February 28, Jackson and the Bananas took center stage against the Texas Tailgators. The pre-game festivities began early, with the Plaza opening at 2 p.m. and players making appearances to ramp up the energy. The event was not just about baseball; it was a community celebration with something for everyone, ensuring a fun-filled experience for fans of all ages.
A Nod to FAMU and Its Alumni
Both TY Jackson and Malachi Mitchell, another FAMU alumnus who played for the Bananas, credited their time at FAMU for shaping their careers and personal identities. Mitchell, who played for the Rattlers from 2016 to 2019, has been making waves in the baseball world, having joined the Bananas in 2020 before moving to the Indianapolis Clowns, a revived Negro league team. His journey exemplifies the diverse opportunities available in baseball beyond the traditional minor league paths.
The Savannah Bananas’ unique style of play, known as Banana Ball, adds a fresh twist to the game, featuring a two-hour time limit and distinctive rules that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Jackson believes this innovative approach offers more opportunities for players compared to the conventional routes often associated with Major League Baseball.
This year’s Banana Ball Tour not only showcased thrilling baseball but also highlighted the rich connections between the players, their college roots, and the community in Tallahassee. From the pre-game festivities to the exhilarating games, the event was a testament to the spirit of baseball and the vibrant culture of the city.
For more information about the event and to catch up on the highlights, visit WCTV and Tallahassee.com.
As the excitement of the Banana Ball Tour wraps up, Tallahassee looks forward to more events that bring the community together through the love of baseball.