GALVESTON — Summer collegiate baseball is returning to Galveston after years away.
According to the Players League, Houston resident Rick Bailey, owner of the Pineville Porcupines, has purchased the league’s first Texas franchise in the Cowboy Collegiate League, bringing summer baseball back to the island.
A minor shareholder in the Players League, Bailey has long supported the organization’s efforts to expand into new regions and create more development opportunities for college athletes. The return of baseball to Galveston carries particular significance given the city’s deep historical ties to the sport. After many years without a summer collegiate team, the new franchise marks a major comeback for the local baseball community.
“Galveston is a destination city for tourists from across the United States, and the community has been vocal about wanting baseball back,” Bailey said. “We’re thrilled to make that a reality.”
Bailey plans to build strong ties with the Galveston community while recruiting players from colleges across Texas. He says the team will focus on fostering a competitive culture centered on unity and purpose.
The new franchise will also reflect Bailey’s ongoing commitment to autism awareness. Similar to his Pineville Porcupines team in North Carolina, the Galveston club will feature autism-awareness themed hats and jerseys to promote inclusion and education.
“The same way the ONSL helps young men grow in North Carolina, this team will do the same in Texas,” Bailey said. “Our players will not only develop as athletes, but also as advocates for something bigger than themselves.”
Bailey is finalizing an agreement with the Galveston Independent School District to use Ball High School’s baseball stadium as the team’s home field. GISD Director of Communications Mike Dudas will serve as Special Assistant to the Team Owner and Director of Game Day Operations.
The team is scheduled to play 20 home games and 20 away games, with the season beginning in late May and concluding in mid-July.
Fans are being invited to help shape the team’s identity through an online poll to determine the franchise’s official name. Options include Sand Crabs, Pirates, Buccaneers and Giants, each paying homage to former Galveston baseball teams. The poll runs through February 1, with the winning name to be announced shortly thereafter.
Galveston’s inaugural season will also feature an Opening Night Celebration, family-friendly activities, special theme nights and youth baseball clinics.
“We can’t wait for fans of all ages to come out, wear our colors, and cheer on their favorite summer team,” Dudas said. “This is more than baseball. It’s a community experience.”
For sponsorships, recruitment, hosting players or other general inquiries, contact:
mike@galvestonwoodbat.com
Link to team name poll:
https://strawpoll.com/7rnzV47x3nO
KGTX 7 Galveston County 