"Copa de la Diversión," or "Fun Cup," is a season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams' local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities.
Unique and fun promotions have always been synonymous with the Akron RubberDucks, and the “Los Perros Calientes” identity continues that tradition with a nod to the Hispanic community in the Greater Akron area. With Hot Dogs being a ballpark favorite among fans, “Los Perros Calientes” pays homage to the tremendous atmosphere of superb food and affordable, family fun at Canal Park, the home of the RubberDucks.
Mariachi bands, like baseball, provide the colorful soundtrack of people's lives. Mariachis represent celebrations and shared experiences for family and friends; the very fabric of Minor League Baseball. By re-branding to the "Mariachis," the team honors the function of these musicians, celebrates their heritage, and provides a communal bonding experience over dance, attire and music.
A celebration of fun, self-expression, and creativity, "Pointy Boots" which originated in North-Central Mexico and made their way into Texas, rose in popularity with the progression of tribal-guarachero music. The moniker honors both Amarillo's young and active hispanic population and the community's centuries-old rich heritage.
The story of Latin baseball player "Diamantes" mirrors that of countless others who flocked to Arkansas in search of the state's rich diamond deposits and American Dream. While playing in historic Hot Springs, Diamantes would frequent nearby diamond hot spots consistently enough to earn the moniker. According the story, Diamantes' voyage for fortune came to an abrupt halt when he mysteriously vanished in search of the precious stones.
Legend has it the ferocious, 100-foot-long Yacumama, a snake-like creature known also as the "Mother of Water," lurks in the waters of both the Amazon River and Western North Carolina. Like its baseball team and community, the mythical creature personifies a storied history of being a fierce and identifiable force.
Boasting a desire to better represent the Chesapeake Bay area, Bowie's "Cangrejos Fantasmas de Chesapeake" identiy came to light after research presented the existence of the small, yet active Atlantic Ghost Crab species in the bay.
A nod to the auto industry's significance in South Central Kentucky, Bowling Green's vibrant "Bólidos" identity honors the area's Hispanic community as a translation from their full-time Hot Rods name. Additionally, flames featured within the logo tie in to the Bólidos alternate translation to meteors.
Bradenton's proximity to the Floridian Gulf Coast makes the region ripe with centuries-old stories of conquistadors and other seafaring explorers. To better connect the region's maritime history to its robust, large Hispanic community, the Babanegras ("Black Beards") moniker came to light. The identity will be partially brought to life through Marty the Marauder, the region's most famous contemporary Babanegra.
Brooklyn is more than a place, it's a mentality: an air of confidence, bordering on cockiness; a feeling of pride and of certainty in the borough's originality; That feeling of invincibility is why the team chose to be known as the "Jefes," or "Bosses," with the borough's greatest monument, the Brooklyn Bridge, prominently featured as the crown jewel of this powerful identity.
In conjunction with the team's Dia de los Muertos celebrations, Carolina's sugar skull fish represents its "Pescados" alter ego that labels a Mudcat after it has been removed from the water. The "Pescados" will celebrate the rich Mexican culture found throughout the Carolinas, enabling families and friends to unite in holiday celebrations.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa - The City of Five Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter … and fun! A nod to the importance of family within the Hispanic community, the team's "Tree of Five Seasons" logo represents the memory-making fun fans will have at the ballpark.
Charleston, South Carolina's "Holy City" nickname stems from the community's diversity in religious and national backgrounds. The RiverDogs take pride in their community's diversity and establishing "The Joe" as a universally-welcoming spot. Charleston's "Perros Santos" identity, which translates to Holy Dogs, stands to celebrate the Lowcountry's growing Latino population through its logo's Día de los Muertos color palette.
Paying homage to its longstanding Knights moniker, Charlotte's "Caballeros" reflects the city's Latino population, which has played a significant role in the city's massive population growth over recent years. Caballeros, which shares a definition of "gentlemanly horseman," ties in seamlessly to the Queen City's identity and team's future plans to celebrate its Latino communities.
Connecting Chattanooga's stunning mountainous terrain to its growing Latino community, the team's Montañas moniker parlays its full-time brand towards a more diverse audience.
To celebrate South Carolina's multi-ethnic Latino population, Columbia adopted the universally beloved "Chicharrones" identity. The multi-faceted, translatable pork dish, traditionally featuring pork belly or rinds, reaches across cultural lines to create a universally sought-after dietary staple. Chicharrones promote community gathering and experience sharing, foundations upon which the Fireflies are built.
A tribute to its city's namesake in Christopher Columbus, the Columbus "Veleros" serve as a direct translation from its full-time Clippers moniker. The ship identity commemorates Columbus's voyage across the Atlantic.
Two things are certain in Corpus Christi: Scorching heat in the summer and a steady flow of raspas to combat the blazing temperatures, making the team's identity decision an easy one. The cool, refreshing dessert is beloved across South Texas, featuring a wide catalog of flavors from its most imaginative consumers. More creative raspa flavors include leche quemada, pickle juice and horchata.
While Daytona's turtle logo is directly tied to its "Tortugas" name, the moniker also pays homage to Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León and his connection to Florida. Making landfall approximately 12 miles from Daytona, in the now aptly-named Ponce de León Inlet, Spain's inaugural exploration through Florida eventually yielded a trip to the Dry Tortugas Islands west of the Florida Keys.
The Rooster - a majestic animal in which the crowning at dawn of each morning symbolizes the daily triumph of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil. The Rooster symbolizes strength and determination. The vibrant colors of the Rooster is diverse, much like the Delmarva peninsula. Without the Rooster, the dynamic poultry industry on Delmarva is not able to thrive.
A testament to the fighting spirit and showmanship of luchadores, the mighty Avocados Luchadores de Down East will combine on-field work ethic with an enthusiastic, fan-friendly atmosphere at Grainger Stadium.
Home to Minor League Baseball's lone in-stadium craft brewery, Bull Durham Beer Co., beer is a cultural phenomenon in Durham. By becoming the "Cervezas de Durham," the team connects its memory-making experiences to the community-minded culture associated with its organization and city.
Margaritas hold a significant place in city's history, considering the beverage's origins trace back to 1942 in El Paso. But the beverage represents more than a drink: it represents El Paso's welcoming culture, its soul and the good times associated with the city and the team.
Where there's a piñata, there's a party! Based on owner Fernando Aguirre's delightful childhood baseball memories, Erie Piñatas games will offer distinct Latin music, concession items, high-energy traditions and colorful attire. Much like UPMC Park, Piñatas are filled with surprises, but the team won't lay down and let visiting teams take swings.
The spectacular annual migration of the monarch butterfly has become an inspiring symbol of our nation's migrant population. As Los Monarcas take flight with this new moniker, we will honor the presence, contributions, and dreams of our rapidly diversifying community.
Everett's "Conquistadores" identity stems from the region's exploratory history, but also represents the town's fighting spirit. Everett's conquering spirit is illustrated through its community's resiliency and the players' fight to develop themselves in the hopes of achieving greatness on the field.
Neighbors to the world's largest military installation, Fort Bragg, Fayetteville's "Guerreros" moniker pays tribute to the community's population of military service members - principally, the 14% of Hispanic active-duty service members. The moniker aims to connect the armed forces community to the area's growing Hispanic community, celebrating the brave city's camaraderie and spirit.
Serving as mobile canvases onto which artists display tribute to Mexican culture, lowriders' influence on art, music and fashion is deeply rooted into Fresno's Hispanic community. The team's "Lowriders" moniker pays tribute to the city of Fresno's place in amplifying lowriding culture.
A native of the Greensboro area and a symbol of intuition, focus and vision, the Ocelote moniker represents similar characteristics displayed by the region the team represents.
The Greenville Drive’s “Ranas de Rio” moniker is designed to pay tribute to the vibrant and significant Hispanic community in the Upstate of South Carolina, which has contributed mightily to the region’s progress. The “River Frog” is derived from the popular frog mascot of the Greenville Drive and with the Reedy River which runs through downtown Greenville, not far from the ballpark.
Xolos (pronounced "SHO-lows"), short for Xoloitzcuintli, are the National Dog of Mexico, tying into Gwinnett's significant populous of Mexican descendants. The breed has existed for over 3,000 years, dating back to the Aztec empire when they were revered as guardians and protectors. Modern-day Xolos are known for intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism, traits that our team personifies every game at Coolray Field.
Harrisburg's "Playeros" identity, which roughly translates to "beachgoers," connects the familial bonding of going to the beach to the importance of family to the Hispanic community. The beach-themed moniker also celebrates the team's home on City Island.
"Chivos" translates to "goats," fitting both the literal equivalent of Hartford's unique team name, and the inferred meaning "The Greatest of All Time." The Chivos' name, with its hard consonants and strong vowels, gives the name an edgy, gritty feel, aligning with the overall philosophy of Hartford's official team name and brand.
Dating back to the Incan Empire, llamas have long been revered for their utility and strength, both of which are tentpoles for the Crawdads organization. The logo holds nods to both Hickory's furniture-producing industry, see the furniture leg in the llama's mouth, and Latin America's vibrancy through the animal's colorful chullo.
Dreams start in Hillsboro, for players, fans and Latino community members, despite the risks and obstacles which lie ahead. We all dream of achievement and personal growth to help create a better tomorrow. We all are Soñadores.
"Fenómenos Enmascarados," which directly translates to "Masked Phenoms," celebrates the rich blend of Hispanic cultures throughout the Hudson Valley. In celebration of Lucha Libre culture, Hudson Valley aims to provide a blend of fighting spirit and showmanship at the ballpark.
Inland Empire opted to put a fun spin on the fearsome Cucuy, a mythical boogeyman which starred in many childhood tall tales within the Hispanic community to encourage children to follow the correct path. Re-imagining the cucuy allows fans to reminisce about stories of old.
A tip of the hat to Iowa's old moniker of Demons, Demonios strives to champion the ballpark experience for all communities. It does so in a uniquely Des Moines fashion with the moniker's spelling being only a few letters off from its team's hometown.
Native to the nearby Atlantic Ocean, the Medusa, or jellyfish, boasts five tentacles to represent strength, faith, trust, family and acceptance found within the Latino community. The logo's vibrant colors represent the Jersey Shore's diversity and familial love displayed throughout the region.
A new kind of speed has begun to rise, deep in the in the heart of racing country. Growing, working, learning, and even dancing faster than any other, the Latin American community is on the rise. The diversities of Latin culture come together as one to celebrate their fast-paced, positive impact here as "Los Rápidos de Kannapolis."
Lake County's "Picantes" moniker represents the area's spice of life, both literally and figuratively. The identity celebrates both the chile pepper's place in spicier Latino cuisine and the community's edgier, fiery personalities.
Stemming from the team's original "Let's Go Nuts!" battle cry, the direct translation to "Vamos Locos" maintains the team's dedication to fun. The Potoo bird logo aims to elicit laughter and represent the ballpark's boundless fun.
The Aviators' alternative persona, "Reyes de Plata," or "Silver Kings," pays homage to the migrant workers that helped shape the rich mining history of Nevada, and gave the state its "Silver State" nickname.
A nod to Allentown's significant Puerto Rican population, the "Coquís" moniker aims to celebrate both the island's unnoficial state animal and community at-large.
Inspired by the Cuban Greater Funnel-eared Bat, the hieroglyph-style forms of the bat emblem are reminiscent of ancient Mesoamerican artwork. The Murciélagos aims to honor the symbol's place in Central and South American culture and celebrate their descendants who call Louisville home.
The Matamosca, a fly-swatter, holds a multi-faceted role in many Hispanic/Latino households: Bug control, discipline tool and toy for the creative minds. The Matamoscas are part of growing up and of parenting, and they embrace the culture and values of Hispanic/Latino families. Most importantly, our team exemplifies these traditions and customs in a competitive, fun & family atmosphere at the ballpark.
The Alebrije, or spirit guide, leads spirits through a safe passage from this life to the next, and guides Modesto into baseball's next generation. Elements within the logo pay homage to the region: the coyote, commonly found in the area, the moose antlers, representing the parent club Seattle Mariners' impact on the community, and the wings and talon, which derive from the Mexican flag and represent the area's significant Mexican population.
Myrtle Beach's "Pelícanos" moniker maintains the creature's symbolization of social responsibility, teamwork and charity while propelling the franchise into the future through authentic engagement with its Latino community.
A millennia ago, the legend of Balam - the jaguar - was born in the jungles of Mesoamerica. They were revered for their power, poise, and cunning; so too are the New Hampshire Fisher Cats as the team transforms into "Gatos Feroces."
"Pajaritos," a common Latino symbol of prosperity and fortune, also pay tribute to Norfolk's affiliation with the Baltimore Orioles through the name's translation to "Baby Birds."
Known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, Arkansas's "Natural State" nickname inspired Northwest Arkansas's full-time Naturals moniker. As a direct translation, "Los Naturales" will engage their Hispanic community through celebrating mutually-held values and creating long-lasting memories.
"Cielo Azul," translating to "Blue Skies," pays homage to Dodger legend Fernando Valenzuela's skyward-facing wind-up and blue within the famous Dodgers brand. The brand also celebrates both the Latino community's richness and depth along with Oklahoma's big blue skies and red dirt.
A direct translation of its current Storm Chasers moniker, the "Cazadores de Tormentas" will better connect Omaha's current identity to its surrounding Latino community.
Representative of the Illinois River's economic and cultural significance in Peoria, "En el Rio" pays tribute to the river and the Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's annual festival of the same name.
The multi-pronged antlers of the Alces - a direct translation of Maine's majestic state animal - the moose, represent Portland's multi-cultural population. By integrating baseball gloves into the antlers, Portland stands ready to catch and embrace the array of cultures that support its community.
Temblores, a direct translation of Rancho Cucamonga's full-time name Quakes moniker, stems from the team's proximity to earthquake-producing fault lines. The re-brand aims to engage its multi-cultural community through celebrating mutually-held values and creating long-lasting memories throughout the summer.
Wrapped in layers of symbolism, including physical city landmarks and representations of industry and heritage, Reading's "Luchadores" moniker represents the organization's commitment to fight for a better tomorrow for its city.
Introducing the "Corazones de Reno" identity illustrates both the team's love for Reno and its Latino community. This love is represented within its logo, displaying a heart with fire for passion, a chili pepper to represent food's place in familial love and baseball, the game which unites the community.
In 2010, the baseball identity in Richmond changed. It became defined by a masked hero, known for high-flying, acrobatic stunts. Like the legendary luchadors from Mexico and Latin America, the masked hero drew notoriety from his superhero image. Now in its 10th season, the team and its heroic defender of fun have assumed a new persona -- the "Ardillas Voladoras." Every Friday night, the ballpark experience will be transformed into a place where athleticism and physicality meets performance and spectacle, more bright and vibrant like the colorful culture that inspired the team's new identity.
A tribute to Rochester's prominent Latino community, the team will take on the "Cocos Locos" moniker and bring a taste of Hispanic culture, including the popular rum-based drink of the same name, to the ballpark.
An alleged urban legend, chupacabras have been seen throughout Texas and northern Mexico for decades. Round Rock's team mentality embodies the chupacabras' relentless determination, fierce attitude and superhuman ability to avoid capture.
The vibrant personalities and outfits of luchadors transcend borders and help bring Latino culture into the American mainstream. Sacramento's "Dorados" identity honors their contributions and embodies their commitment to prosperity and greatness, a pillar upon which California was built.
A nod to the team's Saint Bernard mascot Mugsy, the "San Bernardos de Salem" will celebrate the Latino's hard-working spirit and determination through the animal which displays similar characteristics.
A tribute to their determination and workload, Salt Lake's "Abejas" indentity, a direct translation from its "Bees" moniker, embodies the spirit of Salt Lake City and its Latino community.
San Antonio's "Flying Chanclas" moniker honors the abuelita, a matriarchical figure of discipline and love in Latino families, who also boasts notable throwing accuracy with her chancla. The logo's vibrant colors capture the team and community's fun and lively personality.
A staple in many public events and gathering places throughout the region, San Jose's "Churros" moniker pays tribute to the fun often associated with the snack. The logo's hat is also a nod to the region's rich agricultural history and iconic churro vendor Hippolito "The Churro Man" Cerda background as a vaquero.
A folkloric masked character, boasting roots from a wide spectrum of cultures, the eccentric jester-like "Vejilante" is often characterized during Carnival and other celebrations, engaging in mischevious and entertaining antics alike. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre adopted the moniker to unite the region's growing Latino population.
A subtle nod to the famed Curse of the Billy Goat, South Bend (a Chicago Cubs affiliate) will take on the "Cabritos Maldichos" (Cursed Goats) moniker to celebrate the tenacity and persistence of its Hispanic players and community members in the face of adversity.
The Springfield Cardinals are proud to adopt the "Cardenales" name and logo - just one season after the same milestone took place at Busch Stadium - welcoming all members of the Latino and Hispanic community and paying homage to their rich tradition throughout the entire Cardinals organization.
"Caballos" hold a multi-faceted and significant place in Stockton history. Horses played key roles in aiding area ranchers, but also represent the often-described "iron horse" trains which carried the first waves of immigrants to San Joaquin County and beyond. The logo's steel locomotive feel is inspired by those trains.
"La Familia de Tacoma" unites the family's vital place in both Latino culture and within the Rainiers organization. The team strives to embody its "We R Family" slogan through celebrating its community's unity at the ballpark.
Located within the heart of Washington wine country, Tri-City aimed to honor and welcome the hard-working migrant agricultural workers for their profound impact on the region's wine industry through its "Viñeros" moniker.
Visalia's "Toros" moniker pays homage to the community's agricultural industry, which drives the region economically and embodies the community's strength and determination.
West Michigan sought to tap into the familial traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos, given the team's commitment to supporting family bonding. The "Calaveras" moniker, which translates to skulls, pays homage to the holiday while providing subtle tie-backs to the team's full-time brand, including Lake Michigan's waves, the team's area code and other baseball-themed elements.
"Rayados" translates to "the Striped Ones," and is born out of collaboration with the baseball team and the Hispanic League of Winston-Salem. The name recalls the pinstripes worn from previous Winston-Salem teams, and the term "Rayo" also loosely translates to "Bolt," the Dash's mascot.
Wisconsin's vibrant "Cascabeles" moniker, which translates to "jingle bells," ties in to the team's full time Timber Rattler identity through amplifying the animal's distinct rattling sound.
All right! Good job! Wow! Yeah! Woo Hoo!" These exclamations will all be said when the Worcester Red Sox launch a home run, score a run, or display dazzling defense. In the Latino community, all of these joyous emotions translate to… “¡Wepa!”, a universal term used for any positive exciting moment in life. As the WooSox prepare to take the field for their inaugural season at Polar Park, we are delighted to be called “Los Wepas,” representing the Worcester, Central Massachusetts, New England, and worldwide Latino communities. Where would the Boston Red Sox be without their Latino heroes? We seek to celebrate these players of the past while nurturing our players of the future, as we present, Los Wepas to the world. ¡Gracias a todos!
