Banana Ball Player Shares Fan First Story That Will Make You Cry
David Griffin is a pitcher for the Indianapolis Clowns, one of the newest teams in the Banana Ball Championship League. Before joining Banana Ball, Griffin played college baseball at Curry College and spent several years in the New York Mets organization, reaching the Triple-A level from 2021 through 2024.
Playing Banana Ball With The Clowns
Now wearing No. 15 for the Clowns, Griffin has established himself as one of the team's top pitchers and strikeout leaders during the 2026 season. Through 18 appearances, he has recorded 55 strikeouts over nearly 66 innings.
But Banana Ball is about much more than what happens on the pitcher’s mound. Players are expected to connect with fans, take part in entertainment, and create memorable moments that go far beyond the game itself.
During a recent interview with Quad Cities Country Radio Station US104.9, Griffin opened up about one fan interaction that has stayed with him and left a lasting impact.
A Moment Griffin Says He Will Never Forget
Griffin shared the emotional story of a young girl with terminal cancer who attended one of his games. After meeting her, Griffin decided to give her his baseball cleats from his first-ever game pitching for the Clowns.
The little girl was thrilled to receive them, but months later, Griffin learned that she had passed away.
In an incredibly touching tribute, he discovered that she had been buried with the special cleats he had given her.
Watch David tell the story in the Instagram video below:
It's a story that shows the kind of connection Banana Ball players can have with their fans and how a simple gesture can mean far more than anyone realizes at the time.
The Clowns Are About More Than Circus Entertainment
Griffin also talked about the history behind the Indianapolis Clowns and explained that the team’s story goes much deeper than the modern-day Banana Ball entertainment.
The original Indianapolis Clowns were established in the 1930s and eventually became part of the Negro American League. The team became known for combining competitive baseball with comedy and entertainment, helping create a unique experience for fans.
The Clowns also played an important role in baseball history. The organization helped launch the professional careers of future stars, including Hank Aaron, while also providing opportunities for women in professional baseball. Toni Stone, who became the first woman to regularly play in a Negro League, was among the notable players connected to the team.
Today, the Indianapolis Clowns name has been revived through Banana Ball. While the modern team brings plenty of entertainment and fun to the field, it also carries the legacy of a historic baseball organization that helped shape the sport.
See the full interview with David Griffin here.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gsiQxHPrdQU&t=1s&pp=2AEBkAIB&ra=m
Follow David Griffin on Social Media:
- Insta: david__griffin
- Facebook: Dave Griffin
- TikTok: @david__griffin
- Twitter: dgriff1523
- YouTube: Dave Griffin @Dgriffin1523
