Savannah Bananas Bring Banana Ball to Denver: Gates Open for a Historic Night
The Savannah Bananas are set to make a splash in the Mile High City when they open their Denver stop at the iconic Coors Field. The Gates Open event, scheduled for July 15, 2026, promises a night of high‑energy baseball, comedy, and the signature Banana Ball tricks that have taken the nation by storm.
Why Denver Is the Perfect Stage for Banana Ball
At over 5,200 feet above sea level, Coors Field offers thin air, longer fly balls, and a panoramic view of downtown Denver. The altitude gives the Bananas an extra boost for their daring trick plays, while fans enjoy a crisp, summer evening that enhances the spectacle.
In addition, Denver’s sports culture is steeped in innovation. The city’s embrace of unconventional entertainment—think the Denver Broncos’s halftime shows and the Colorado Rockies’s fan‑participation contests—makes it an ideal market for the Bananas’ blend of baseball and theater.
Historic Roots: From the Indianapolis Clowns to the Savannah Bananas
The Bananas draw inspiration from the Indianapolis Clowns, pioneers who merged baseball skill with showmanship. Like the Clowns, the Bananas aim to “bring the game to the people,” delivering a performance that feels part sport, part circus, and part community celebration.
“We stand on the shoulders of legends,” says Coach Andy McCormick, who leads the Bananas’ coaching staff. “The Clowns taught us that laughter and skill can share a diamond, and we’re proud to carry that legacy to Denver.”
What Fans Can Expect: The Banana Ball Experience
Banana Ball is a fast‑paced, rule‑bending version of baseball that includes:
- Four‑hour time limit—the game ends when the clock hits zero, regardless of the inning.
- “Banana Run” rule—any player who circles the bases on a single hit earns an automatic home run.
- Fan‑chosen challenges—audience members submit tricks via the official app, and the team must attempt them on the spot.
During the Denver Gates Open, the Bananas will showcase the Top 25 trick plays from their 2023 Banana Ball World Tour, including:
- The “Invisible Pitch”—a fake delivery that confuses the batter.
- The “Double‑Down Steal”—two runners stealing simultaneously from first and third
