The Indianapolis Clowns are reviving their historic legacy, emphasizing the importance of not letting their story fade away. They recently played a banana ball game against the Party Animals, losing 6-2.
Key points
Indianapolis Clowns are reviving their historic legacy
Recent game against Party Animals ended in a 6-2 loss
Emphasis on preserving the team's story
Game took place at Victory Field in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Mark Smith (40) attempts to knock the ball from Indianapolis Clownsâ Bobby Lada (7) during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) reacts after he scores a home run during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jalen Vasouez (2) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Fans dance during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Q&A
What is the history of the Indianapolis Clowns?
The Indianapolis Clowns have a storied history in baseball, known for their unique style and contributions to the sport.
What was the outcome of the recent game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals?
The Indianapolis Clowns lost the recent banana ball game to the Party Animals with a score of 6-2.
Why is the revival of the Indianapolis Clowns significant?
The revival is significant as it aims to preserve the team's legacy and ensure that their contributions to baseball are not forgotten.
Where did the Indianapolis Clowns play their recent game?
The Indianapolis Clowns played their recent game at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
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Indianapolis Clownsâ Kirkland Banks (1) celebrates the end of an inning during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The Party Animals celebrate their win during a banana ball game against the Indianapolis Clowns on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Lydia Zachery (bottom) lifts her daughter Phoebe Zachery, 2, up in the air during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Bobby Lada (7) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) signs an autograph for Chelsea Linders, 29, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Clowns meet on the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Gage Voorhees (4) signs Jaxston Drakeâs, 10, poster before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Mat Wolf does a flip during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Christian Trincado holds his daughter Padme Trincado, 3, as they watch a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
The Barnstorm Brass perform before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
The referee does the splits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Party Animalsâ Reece Hampton (6) scores a run during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Chris Burgess (9) reaches third base during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) catches a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The Indianapolis Clowns sing along with the crowd to a song during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Eli Paton (16) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The Indianapolis Clowns enact the golden batter rule during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) attempts to slide safely into second base past Party Animalsâ Chase Achuef (11) during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Kirkland Banks (1) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Party Animalsâ Dustin Baber (9) reaches third base during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The Indianapolis Clowns dance before they play a banana bal game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Tanner Thomas (4) and Jason Swan (2) shake hands as they leave the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Eli Paton (16) waves a flag as the team honors the original Indianapolis Clowns Negro Leagues team before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) makes his way onto the field during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Moâne Davis (29) speaks as the team honors the original Indianapolis Clowns Negro Leagues team before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The Indianapolis Clowns walk onto the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Joe Lytle (22) juggles before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ David Griffin (15) throws out balls to fans during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Banana Ball founder Jesse Cole (left) and Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, yell to the crowd before a game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clowns Daniel Foster (34) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Party Animalsâ Garett Delano (777) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) signs items for fans before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) runs onto the field as he is introduced before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The crowd watches during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The crowd watches during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
The crowd watches as Party Animalsâ Brady Kais (13) prepares to throw out a t-shirt during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
People enter to watch performances before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Malachi "Flash Tha Kid" Mitchell signs autographs before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Rob McMinn hands out tickets before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Quentin Winder, 35, watches a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Heide Renfree, 8, gets a poster signed by Pharty, the Party Animals mascot, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
A sign hangs before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
A crowd waits before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
The crowd watches a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
A car makes its way onto the field during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
1 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Mark Smith (40) attempts to knock the ball from Indianapolis Clownsâ Bobby Lada (7) during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
1 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Mark Smith (40) attempts to knock the ball from Indianapolis Clownsâ Bobby Lada (7) during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
2 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) reacts after he scores a home run during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
3 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jalen Vasouez (2) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
4 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Fans dance during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
5 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Kirkland Banks (1) celebrates the end of an inning during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
6 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Party Animals celebrate their win during a banana ball game against the Indianapolis Clowns on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
7 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Lydia Zachery (bottom) lifts her daughter Phoebe Zachery, 2, up in the air during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
8 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Bobby Lada (7) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
9 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) signs an autograph for Chelsea Linders, 29, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
10 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Clowns meet on the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
11 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Gage Voorhees (4) signs Jaxston Drakeâs, 10, poster before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
12 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Mat Wolf does a flip during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
13 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Christian Trincado holds his daughter Padme Trincado, 3, as they watch a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
14 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Barnstorm Brass perform before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
15 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The referee does the splits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
16 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Reece Hampton (6) scores a run during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
17 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Chris Burgess (9) reaches third base during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
18 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
19 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) catches a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
20 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
21 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Clowns sing along with the crowd to a song during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
22 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Eli Paton (16) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
23 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Clowns enact the golden batter rule during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
24 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) attempts to slide safely into second base past Party Animalsâ Chase Achuef (11) during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
25 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Kirkland Banks (1) throws in a ball during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
26 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Dustin Baber (9) reaches third base during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
27 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Clowns dance before they play a banana bal game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
28 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Tanner Thomas (4) and Jason Swan (2) shake hands as they leave the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
29 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Eli Paton (16) waves a flag as the team honors the original Indianapolis Clowns Negro Leagues team before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
30 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) makes his way onto the field during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
31 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Moâne Davis (29) speaks as the team honors the original Indianapolis Clowns Negro Leagues team before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
32 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Clowns walk onto the field before a banana ball game against the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
33 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Joe Lytle (22) juggles before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
34 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ David Griffin (15) throws out balls to fans during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
35 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Banana Ball founder Jesse Cole (left) and Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, yell to the crowd before a game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
36 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clowns Daniel Foster (34) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
37 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Party Animalsâ Garett Delano (777) throws during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
38 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Correlle Prime (11) signs items for fans before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
39 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Brian Dansereau (5) runs onto the field as he is introduced before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
40 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The crowd watches during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
41 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The crowd watches during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
42 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The crowd watches as Party Animalsâ Brady Kais (13) prepares to throw out a t-shirt during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
43 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
People enter to watch performances before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
44 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Clownsâ Malachi "Flash Tha Kid" Mitchell signs autographs before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
45 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Rob McMinn hands out tickets before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
46 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Quentin Winder, 35, watches a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
47 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
Heide Renfree, 8, gets a poster signed by Pharty, the Party Animals mascot, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
48 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
A sign hangs before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
49 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
A crowd waits before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
50 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
The crowd watches a performance before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
51 / 51
Indianapolis Clowns face the Party Animals in Banana Ball game in Indianapolis
A car makes its way onto the field during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
INDIANAPOLIS â Hammerinâ Hank circled the bases for the Indianapolis Clowns again Friday night at Victory Field.
This was not Hank Aaron himself, of course. This was a 5-year-old named Owen, wearing the No. 5 Aaron wore after signing his first professional contract with the Negro American League franchise. In one of many pregame gimmicks which stoked a crowd of almost 15,000, the visiting Party Animals avoided young Owenâs grounder through the infield, then threw it around as he circled the bases.
The fresh future of baseball paying homage to its proud legacy â by design, that theme recurred throughout the night.
The Clowns played the first of two games in their namesake hometown. They are one of two new teams added to the Banana Ball World Tour â an offshoot of the perpetually viral and massively popular Savannah Bananas. Most of that sellout crowd stuck around until the final out of the Party Animalsâ 6-2 victory.
Why leave your seat when the entertainment never stops? Instead of walk-up songs, music plays throughout the game. Skits and dance breaks and sing-alongs and constant crowd interaction.
Designated runner Malachi âFlash Tha Kidâ Mitchell, wearing a race car driverâs suit and helmet, entering the game via a corvette. Peanuts, the âfirst mascot pitcher in baseball history,â retiring the only batter he faced. Instead of a seventh inning stretch, shutting off the lights, asking everyone in the stadium to turn on their cell phone flashlight and sing âWhat A Wonderful World.â
The entire night remained on brand for the kid-friendly frivolity Banana Ball has spread across the country. Yet the name and its connection to an important team and period in baseball history remain central to the players and organizers. They hope to entertain, but they also hope to educate.
âIf things arenât talked about, then people will forget, and we donât want that to be forgotten,â said former Major League All-Star and Gold Glove winner Jackie Bradley Jr., who plays for the Clowns. âThis is part of history, and itâs history that should be shared â not to show the bad things, but to show how far weâve come and where we continue to grow and how we can get better.â
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) hits during a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
How the Indianapolis Clowns entertain and educate
The Savannah Bananasâ comedy-tinged brand of baseball became a national phenomenon over the past decade. The mix of rehearsed skits and routines, gimmicks like hitters wearing stilts up to the plate and general entertainment-first philosophy draws heavily from the legacy of teams such as the Clowns.
Yet founder and CEO Jesse Cole said as recently as five years ago, he had never heard of the Indianapolis Clowns. His introduction came during a Savannah Bananas trip to Kansas City and a visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. The museumâs president Bob Kendrick, also in attendance Friday, told him watching the Bananas took him back to watching the Clowns against the Kansas City Monarchs.
The original Clowns, founded in the 1930s, were a cornerstone Negro League franchise. Considered baseballâs version of the Harlem Globetrotters, the Clowns also won Negro League championships. Aaron signed his first professional contract with the Clowns in 1953. The same year a woman, Toni Stone, batted .243 and played second base.
The club continued barnstorming and playing exhibitions for decades â long after the league folded â before ceasing operations in 1989. Banana Ball brought the brand back as an homage to an essential piece of American baseball history â and the companyâs modern role as ambassadors of the game.
âWhen I heard their story and theyâre pioneers and what they went through and the challenges to play all over the country and the joy and the fun and the hijinks and the pranks, I was like, this is unbelievable,â Cole said. âFor 60 years, they did this, and some people donât know their story.
âAnd thatâs what we do with Banana Ball is bring joy and bring fun. I was like, we need to get this story out there.â
Vinny Santarsiero turned his career as a mortgage broker into more of a side hustle when be became a Clown. He was already familiar with the teamâs legacy, having read up on Negro League history on long bus rides during his three seasons in the Dodgers minor league system. He knew Aaron and one of his personal favorite pitchers, Satchel Paige, spent stints with the team.
After the nightâs first pitch, the focus shifts to the party atmosphere of Banana Ball. Prior to the game, though, the Clowns paid tribute to the players who once starred for the Clowns but were denied an opportunity to play in the Major Leagues. As players took turns recognizing those former players and reciting their accolades, a teammate ran to their position, holding a flag with that original Clownâs playing number.
One of the biggest ovations of the night came when Steve Anderson, a Clowns player in the 1960s and 70s, escorted Bradley to home plate.
âI think everybody on this team wears this jersey with a heightened sense of pride, just because we know the heritage and the people that came before us and what weâre continuing on,â Santarsiero said.
âSo thereâs a tremendous amount of respect in each one of these players for the name on the front of the jersey.â
Indianapolis Clownsâ Vinny Santarsiero (21) stands during introductions before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Vinny Santarsiero (21) stands during introductions before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis. The Party Animals defeated the Indianapolis Clowns 6-2.
Nick Wilson said he was often the only Black kid in his baseball games while growing up in suburban Dallas. Prior to being drafted by the Clowns, his biggest source of Negro League history had been the Jackie Robinson biopic â42.â
He did not learn his grandfather, James Wilson, had played for a Black baseball team in Houston until it was mentioned in the eulogy of his funeral in 2017. Now he spreads the story of the Clowns around the country.
âWe have history on our team, and that is such a responsibility to come with every day,â Wilson said. âItâs not just about putting on a great show, but itâs also educating people about this history.â
Indianapolis Clowns tryouts involved more than baseball
Wilson thought his unique baseball ride ended last spring. He was once an unlikely college prospect, beginning his high school career as the junior varsity manager and not making varsity until his senior year. He bounced around to four colleges. When he finished at Angelo State, he literally hung âem up â tying the shoelaces of his cleats together and tossing them onto a telephone wire.
He started a desk job at Dell Technologies in Nashville last fall before hearing about a tryout at Vanderbilt University. So he put on his uniform â not a baseball uniform, though.
The ad told candidates to be ready to stand out. Wilson showed up wearing a purple bandana and socks, a turtle shell and carrying a bo staff â everything needed to represent Donatello from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The tryout began with an interview. When Wilson said he liked to âbring the energy and dance,â the interviewers asked for a demonstration on the spot. Anyone too self-conscious or unwilling to let their hair down probably wasnât going to play his way onto the team.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) signs an autograph for Chelsea Linders, 29, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Clownsâ Nick Wilson (33) signs an autograph for Chelsea Linders, 29, before a banana ball game between the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals Friday, May 15, 2026, at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis.
Santarsiero relocated to his wifeâs hometown of Evansville after his playing career. He gave private lessons there and served as an assistant coach for Tecumseh High School. He learned the Banana Ball World Tour was expanding from Mitchell, his high school teammate in Gainesville, Florida.
At the tryout he showed he could still throw in the low to mid 90s. He also had to show he had the right personality. Somewhat surprisingly, one of the teamâs most viral social media clips is of Santarsiero busting a move.
âEveryone has to buy in, and you have to lose the ego,â Santarsiero said. âYouâre gonna look goofy at times, and you just have to kind of be comfortable with that. I wouldnât say any of these baseball players were dance majors, you know what I mean?â
That goofiness is an essential piece of the teamâs tribute to the Clowns. Friday night was the teamâs first headlining experience. Players and other cast members spend two days rehearsing routines â many of which were performed for the first time.
Three Clowns spent a good portion of Friday afternoon working on a skit based on the old-time baseball game of pepper. When they felt they had everything synched up, they wanted to show it to Cole for his approval.
The Clownsâ stint in Indy this season ends Saturday, but the teamâs connection to the city will continue.
âI feel like this will be a place that we come back to and try to do more in the years to come â whether thatâs more events and more teams and really make this special,â Cole said.