Cole Stanford, a former Florida Gators pitcher, is chasing an unconventional path after his college eligibility expired.
The Banana Ball Championship League, a baseball circuit that blends sport with music, comedy and trick plays, has opened its doors to Stanford through a tryout arranged by his former Lenoir‑Rhyne teammates.
Training with the Visitors
Now training with the league’s developmental program, the Visitors, Stanford rotates among catcher, first base and outfield, mastering unorthodox skills such as catching fly balls behind his back and spinning to make the grab.
He describes the experience as a steep learning curve, noting that the league’s emphasis on entertainment pushes players to think creatively about every movement on the field.
The upcoming Banana Ball draft will feature 11 rounds and select 88 players, with each franchise allowed to tag 16 athletes for guaranteed spots in the next season.
If Stanford fails to earn a roster spot with the Savannah Bananas, the league’s flagship team, he says he will pivot toward coaching, a path he has already discussed with Florida’s coaching staff.
A Broader Vision
Beyond personal ambition, Stanford sees the league as a platform to showcase baseball’s evolving culture and to attract new fans who might otherwise overlook the sport.
His participation also aligns with growing media interest, including coverage by ESPN, which has begun to spotlight the league’s unique blend of athletics and spectacle.