The Long Beach Baseball Club has announced the six semifinalists for its new team name, inviting residents to participate in a public vote to help shape the club’s identity. This announcement follows a robust contest that attracted over 1,300 submissions since its launch in early September.
The selected semifinalists are:
– Long Beach Coast
– Long Beach Cruisers
– Long Beach Grit
– Long Beach Groove
– Long Beach Parrots
– Long Beach Regulators
Voting will remain open until October 15, 2023, allowing fans to have their say before the finalists are chosen. The club plans to finalize its new identity in January 2026, which will also involve the design of a new logo and branding.
Ena Patel, president of the Long Beach Baseball Club, expressed enthusiasm about community involvement. “The people of Long Beach have been incredible,” Patel stated. “It’s clear that this community wants to be part of building the team’s identity and is excited about us making Blair Field our home in 2026. We believe these six semifinalists reflect the creativity, heart, and energy of this city.”
Fans can cast their votes on the club’s website or visit several designated locations around Long Beach, including the Long Beach Airport and local establishments such as Joe Jost’s and Steelcraft. Team officials are conducting a thorough review process to determine the finalists based on the public’s input.
The initiative to bring baseball back to Long Beach received unanimous approval from the Long Beach City Council in July. The plan involves a partnership between the city, club officials, and California State University, Long Beach, which will share Blair Field at Recreation Park with the new team. Upgrades to the stadium are planned, including renovations to locker rooms, enhancements to the outfield, and the installation of a new scoreboard.
Additionally, the club welcomed hip-hop artist Warren G into its ownership group last month. The Long Beach native, known for his hit song “Regulate,” has contributed to the “Long Beach Regulators” name choice. His barbecue brand, Sniffin’ Griffin’s BBQ, may also feature at the stadium during the upcoming season. “Long Beach shaped me, and I want to help build something positive for the next generation,” Warren G commented. “Baseball brings people together, and that’s what I’m all about.”
The Long Beach Baseball Club aims to join the Pioneer League, an independent Major League Baseball Partner League, beginning in 2026. Currently, the league comprises 12 teams across the West Coast, marking an exciting new chapter for baseball enthusiasts in Long Beach.
