WORLD SERIES WOES: COULD SAVANNAH BANANAS’ FAN FRENZY BE MLB’S WAKE-UP CALL?

The verdict is clear: it was the least watched World Series on record

The 2023 World Series just wrapped up, and the verdict is clear: it was the least watched on record, with an average of only 9.11 million viewers tuning in. As the digital age offers an array of entertainment, Major League Baseball (MLB) faces a challenge to keep the game engaging.

MLB’s answer? A pitch clock that has successfully reduced game times by an average of 28 minutes. But even with faster games, fan engagement is still a question mark.

Now, let’s turn our gaze to a different diamond, where Jesse Cole and the Savannah Bananas are playing a whole new ballgame:

⏱ Time Limit: Each game is capped at two hours, challenging the long-standing perception of baseball as a slow-paced affair.

🏃‍♂️ No Walks, Just Sprints: Batters sprint to first on walks, injecting a thrilling rush into every potential base on balls.

🚫 No Bunting: The Bananas have peeled away the bunt, pushing players to swing big and elevate the excitement.

🤝 Fan Catches Count: Fans become part of the game as their catches can turn into outs, blurring the lines between spectators and players.

💃 Entertainment Galore: Choreographed dances and on-field antics ensure the spectacle extends well beyond the nine innings.

The Savannah Bananas are not just playing baseball; they’re redefining the entire experience. They’ve shown us that innovation doesn’t stop with a pitch clock — it’s about transforming the game into a full-fledged entertainment experience.

As the Bananas demonstrate, it’s time for MLB to think outside the batter’s box. It’s not just about playing time; it’s about making the game more interactive, engaging, and downright fun.

Could the MLB take a page from the Bananas’ playbook to win back the crowd? What’s your take on how baseball can innovate to keep fans cheering?