2018 World Series Champ Jackie Bradley Jr. Joins Banana Ball's Iconic Clowns

On November 14, 2025, the Indianapolis Clowns made a significant announcement by selecting former 11-year MLB pro and 2018 World Series champion Jackie Bradley Jr. as the first pick in the inaugural Banana Ball player draft. This move makes Bradley Jr. the first former MLB player to commit to participating full-time in the Banana Ball league.

The 2016 All-Star and 2018 Golden Glove winner, who last played in the majors with the Kansas City Royals in 2023, told ESPN that his decision to join the Clowns came together just days ago. With his oldest daughter being a big fan of Banana Ball, Bradley Jr. had previously made an appearance for the Savannah Bananas at Fenway Park in July, which led to the Clowns reaching out to him about joining their team.

The Clowns have a storied history, serving as the Negro Leagues' version of the Harlem Globetrotters as an exhibition team and signing Hank Aaron to his first professional contract. They were also one of the first teams to roster women, such as Mamie Johnson, Toni Stone and Connie Morgan. After being inactive since 1989, the Clowns are now set to be part of the inaugural 60-game season of the Banana Ball Championship League in 2026.

Bradley Jr. emphasized that joining the Clowns is an opportunity to help "bridge pre-integration Black baseball to the modern game" and grow the sport. While he's not ruling out a return to MLB, the 2018 ALCS MVP is content with his career and excited to be part of the Clowns' legacy.