Modesto to Welcome New Pioneer League Baseball Team in 2026, Stadium Improvements Planned
MODESTO, Calif. – Professional baseball is returning to Modesto with a new team set to begin play in May 2026 as part of the Pioneer League’s 87th season. The team will call John Thurman field home, bringing renewed life to the stadium and a boost to the local economy.
Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It will be a game changer, right?”
Team owner Dave Heller highlighted the unique entertainment opportunities the independent minor league team will offer, including unconventional promotions. “The helicopter circles back and drops 1,000 pounds of giant marshmallows all over the children. Those are the sorts of things you can’t do in affiliated ball today. But we can do them here in Modesto,” Heller said.
Alongside the excitement of a new team, notable upgrades are planned for John Thurman Field. Heller announced improvements focused on fan safety and comfort, including “more netting so nobody ever gets hit by a foul ball at the ballpark,” new drink rails, and padded outfield walls “so the players don’t hurt themselves.”
Mayor Zwahlen anticipates a positive impact on tourism, hoping to draw fans “from all over the region, but not just the region. The state of California,from the Bay area,from Southern California to Northern California.” She emphasized the city’s focus on creating “a really great fan experience so that everyone will want to come here to participate in it.”
The public will have a chance to contribute to the team’s identity, as a contest to name the new team will open in October.