When it was first announced that our zephyrs name was retiring, many people agreed that it was time for a change but many others were sad to see the name go. When the new official name of “The New Orleans Babycakes” was announced, however, all hell broke loose for the first couple of weeks. The city was in agreement that this name was straight up stupid. Twitter exploded in disapproval and there were polls circulating on Facebook that suggested alternate baseball names and logos. Even USA Today wrote an article that ranked the 10 weirdest minor league baseball team names, and guess who won the title of weirdest minor league name. You guessed it! The Babycakes…
It’s clear now that the Babycakes name isn’t going anywhere and I think the name is starting to grow on many New Orleanians. In fact, the Babycakes merchandise sales are outperforming all of the other minor leagues. This is proof that the name is starting to sink in and slowly be accepted around the city. Although, I don’t think I’ll ever accept the mascot because that thing is terrifying. Anyone else see a Chuckie resemblance?
When you really think about it, the Babycakes name fits right in with the rest of the ridiculous minor league names. The Montgomery Biscuits, El Paso Chihuahuas, and the Modesto Nuts all have equally ridiculous names and logos if you ask me.
With all of the fuss surrounding the team, I just had to go to the season opener to see how the crowd was really going to respond to the change. The turn out was awesome. The crowd was definitely into the game and cheering on our new team.
Before the game started, I was chosen to go on the field in between the 2nd and 3rd inning to participate in a tire race. I needed someone to race against so I signed my brother up against his will. When the 2nd inning was nearing an end, I looked at the amount of people that were in the crowd and had a wave of nerves come over me. I mean my brother and I were about to be the center of attention in front of everyone at The Shrine on Airline. Plus, I had to borrow a friend’s shoes because mine weren’t going to cut it. So there I was, standing next to my brother on the 3rd base line with borrowed shoes and a tire. There was no turning back now.
3, 2, 1…GO! We were off, rolling that tire away. And then BAM, I slipped. (In my head I’m like: “SAFE!”)
I hear a big “OHHHH” from the crowd, I hop back up, and finish the race. Of course, my brother beat me. This event was literally only a minute long and I managed to fall. That field was slippery, y’all! I needed some cleats for that. I’m really not embarrassed though (if I was I don’t think I would be writing about it). It was such a fun experience!
Other than that, I really enjoyed the game. It was the perfect night to kick back and enjoy some baseball. Plus, I found out that the stadium offers $2 beer on Thursday nights! Beer and baseball? Yes, please! Definitely check out the Babycakes schedule here. With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a game with some friends or family.
