Savannah Bananas Bring Banana Ball to PNC Park in Sold-Out Season Opener

PITTSBURGH, PA - On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Savannah Bananas kicked off their first of two Banana Ball exhibitions at PNC Park, delivering a high-octane twist on America’s pastime before a capacity crowd.

The Bananas, known for their viral social-media fame and fast-paced “Banana Ball” rules, squared off against the Texas Tailgaters at 7:00 p.m. in a sold-out contest that transformed the ballpark into a carnival of dancing, stunts, and nonstop action. Fans in bright yellow Bananas jerseys experienced:

  • A strict two-hour time limit, eliminating traditional lulls
  • Choreographed walk-up routines with pep bands and yellow carpets
  • Novel scoring: one point per inning, with all runs counting in the final inning
  • Unconventional rules such as no bunting (violators are ejected) and foul-ball outs for fans

The tour stop in Pittsburgh marks PNC Park’s first hosting of Banana Ball and underscores the city’s growing reputation for hosting unique sporting spectacles. Jerad Bachar, President & CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH, celebrated the event as “a unique opportunity to showcase our city, our championship sports culture, and our world-class hospitality… The Bananas’ show-stopping performances are a perfect match for Pittsburgh’s enthusiasm and energy”.

Local interest peaked as two Pittsburgh-area natives, Ryan Cox of Aliquippa and Alex Ziegler of Butler, took the field for the Bananas, drawing loud cheers from hometown supporters. The sold-out crowd of over 38,000 witnessed the Bananas’ signature mix of athleticism and entertainment, capped by sprinting sprints for walks, fan-catch-outs, and choreographed celebrations after every run.

The Bananas will return to PNC Park tomorrow, Saturday, August 30, for their second and final Banana Ball contest in Pittsburgh, promising another evening of quirky rules and nonstop fun. All tickets for Saturday’s game were distributed through a Ticket Lottery List and have long been sold out, ensuring another packed house for the Bananas’ grand finale.