Savannah Bananas Go Beyond Entertainment, Ushering In Historic Shift for Women in Baseball

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeremy Lockett | Last updated Aug 13, 2025 9:16 AM ET

In a world craving authenticity and unadulterated fun, the Savannah Bananas didn't just meet the moment; they seized it and flipped it on its head, quite literally, with their brand of "Banana Ball." But beyond the synchronized dances and innovative rules, a more profound revolution has quietly taken root in Bananaland: the purposeful inclusion of women on the diamond, shattering long-held norms and proving that talent knows no gender.

For years, baseball, America's pastime, has largely remained a male-dominated arena. While women have a rich, albeit often overlooked, history in the sport – from the early college teams and barnstorming circuits to the iconic All-American Girls Professional Baseball League – widespread professional opportunities have been scarce. That landscape is rapidly changing, and the Bananas are leading the charge.

The movement gained significant momentum with the arrival of Jocelyn Alo. A name synonymous with college softball dominance, Alo, the NCAA's all-time home run queen, first made a guest appearance for the Bananas in 2023, electrifying the crowd with her sheer presence. Her impact was undeniable, leading to a historic one-month contract in 2024, officially making her the first woman to be a signed player for the team.

Kelsie Whitmore takes the field as the first woman to ever start a game in Atlantic League history. Make sure to send this to every little girl who thinks they can’t play professional baseball! Those days are over fans, Kelsie Whitmore has arrived and she’s here to stay! pic.twitter.com/9i7fiCwOYU
— SI FerryHawks (@FerryHawks) May 1, 2022

Alo's transition wasn't just a publicity stunt; it was a testament to her undeniable skill and the Bananas' commitment to integrating top-tier athletes regardless of their background. Her powerful swing and magnetic personality quickly endeared her to the Banana Nation, proving that a different kind of "baseball royalty" could reign supreme in this unique spectacle.

"You can do anything you set your mind to. Don't let anyone ever tell you that you can't."

Jocelyn Alo gets her first career Banana Ball hit in Fresno, California. pic.twitter.com/fCL85YuVKu
— Savannah Bananas (@TheSavBananas) May 4, 2024

Building on that groundbreaking precedent, the Bananas welcomed Kelsie Whitmore in 2025, a move that sent ripples through the baseball world. Whitmore isn't just a phenomenal athlete; she's a pioneer in her own right. A veteran of the U.S. Women's National Baseball Team, she previously made history as the first woman to start a game in a Major League Baseball partner league (the Atlantic League).

Her resume speaks volumes: a versatile two-way player, adept as both a pitcher and an outfielder, Whitmore brings a serious professional baseball pedigree to the theatrical world of Banana Ball. Her signing through September signals a deeper, sustained commitment to her role, not just as a novelty, but as an integral part of the team's competitive and entertainment fabric.

Welcome your newest Banana, Kelsie Whitmore

Kelsie is a member of the US Women's National Baseball Team and has played for multiple professional teams including the Staten Island Ferry Hawks and the Oakland Ballers. She will be playing with the Bananas through September. pic.twitter.com/C9QAzP1ual
— Savannah Bananas (@TheSavBananas) August 1, 2025

The Bananas' philosophy of "Fans First" extends far beyond quirky rules and dancing players. It encompasses a vision where the game is accessible and engaging for everyone, on and off the field. By actively seeking out and integrating highly skilled female athletes like Alo and Whitmore, they're not merely entertaining; they're expanding the definition of who belongs in professional baseball.

This isn't just about inclusion for inclusion's sake. It's about recognizing exceptional talent and leveraging it to enhance the overall experience. Alo's power and Whitmore's versatility aren't just breaking barriers; they're contributing directly to the high-energy, unpredictable nature of Banana Ball. They are proof that when the focus is truly on skill, showmanship, and a "fans first" mentality, the sport itself becomes richer and more vibrant for everyone involved.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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