dpBanana Ball returned to Connecticut this week, bringing its signature mix of baseball and entertainment back to Dunkin’ Park in Hartford for the first time in three years.
The Indianapolis Clowns defeated the Party Animals in the opening game of a three-game series Wednesday night, rallying for a walk-off win in the ninth inning on a hit by former Boston Red Sox player Jackie Bradley Jr.
Fans from Connecticut and across the country gathered for the game, with many also taking part in a pregame block party before heading into the ballpark.
“You can’t beat the camaraderie, excitement. It’s a great time,” Jason LaForte of Ellington said.
Banana Ball features several unique rules designed to keep the action moving and the crowd engaged. Trick plays count as points, and any foul ball caught by a fan counts as an out.
The pregame festivities, which included dancing and other skits, also energized the crowd.
“I love what they’re doing with the game. Makes it more exciting than traditional baseball, but I like the additions,” Mike Szeczyk of Colchester said.
The excitement extended to the players as well.
David Griffin, a pitcher for the Indianapolis Clowns who is from nearby Massachusetts, returned to the same field where he made his Double-A debut when he played for the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Griffin has been playing Banana Ball for the past year.
“It’s awesome to come back here being able to perform in front of family and friends, and I’m throwing tomorrow so I can’t wait to have everybody there,” Griffin said.
Griffin said Banana Ball has a rhythm unlike traditional baseball.
“The game is moving fast, but it’s also at the same time, it slows down a little bit. You hear all of the music playing in the background, so it feels like you’re in the offseason, like training,” Griffin said.
Fans said the nonstop entertainment is part of what makes Banana Ball stand out.
“It’s fun. It’s engaging every minute. There’s never a down moment,” Jessica Hickey of Simsbury said.
