Zephyrs to change team name for 2017

After nearly a quarter-century as the New Orleans Zephyrs, the Crescent City's professional baseball team will have a new name beginning in 2017.

With the help of Brandiose, a San Diego-based sports marketing company which has overseen rebranding efforts for more than 50 minor league teams, the Zephyrs will conduct an online "Name the Team" campaign from April 25 through May 6.

Starting Monday, fans are encouraged to go to zephyrsbaseball.com and submit their nomination for the team's new identity, along with an explanation of why they feel their suggestion perfectly embodies New Orleans. The top choices will be entered into a contest to vote for the new team name, with the winner being announced next fall.

The fan who submits the winning choice will win 2-4 full season tickets for 2017, a game in a luxury suite and a ceremonial first pitch, among other prizes.

As the team enters its 25th season next year, it will do so with a name that finally reflects the city it represents, as the "Zephyrs" name carried over with the franchise when it arrived from Denver in 1993. It will also serve as a continuation of the momentum the franchise has built in recent months, including a record-setting attendance for the Mumford & Sons concert.

"We are thrilled with the enthusiasm the entire New Orleans community has shown as we strive to bring a new energy and electricity to the ballpark every single day," said team president Lou Schwechheimer. "By giving our great fans a voice through the name-the-team contest, we expect to create magic for generations to come."

For more information, contact the Zephyrs at (504) 734-5155 or visit zephyrsbaseball.com.