A New Era of Summer Baseball in Indiana
The start of the 2026 summer season saw two familiar yet renewed faces take the field across Indiana, sparking excitement among local fans and reviving historic ballparks.
In Richmond, the Flying Mummies opened their home schedule at McBride Stadium to a sold‑out crowd, a spectacle that combined nostalgic branding with modern promotions.
Reviving Tradition in Richmond
Owned by a group that includes actors Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez and Jon Gries, the team introduced a quirky mascot and a series of themed giveaways that turned the opener into a community festival.
The packed house reflected a deep‑seated appetite for live baseball, with families and alumni filling the stands.
The Kokomo CreekChubs, who replaced the former Jackrabbits, are guided by former Major League pitcher Joe Thatcher. Their name honors a native freshwater minnow, tying the franchise to local ecology.
A Fresh Face in Kokomo
Opening night drew more than 1,500 fans, underscoring the demand for summer entertainment in the city.
Both clubs share an ambition to become permanent fixtures, leveraging strong ownership, creative branding, and partnerships with regional leagues such as the Northwoods League and Prospect League.
League officials note that the influx of well‑funded teams could reshape the summer baseball landscape, offering players a competitive platform while boosting local economies.