The Minor League Baseball association announced its inaugural “Copa de la Diversión” campaign to highlight the Hispanic communities in the league and the cities they play.
While some teams kept it tame – like the Charlotte Caballeros and Mariachis de Nuevo México – San Antonio went for the most puro name it could. (Although we have to give a shoutout to the Round Rock Chupacabras and San Bernardino Cucuys.)
For nine games this season, the San Antonio Missions will transform into the “Flying Chanclas de San Antonio.” Sports Illustrated even named it the best team name change in the league.
According to a press release, the MiLB noted that San Antonio’s culture is very Hispanic- and family-oriented. They decided to honor the Latino matriarch – the abuelita – and her strength (made stronger by la chancla).
The renamed Flying Chanclas will make their debut on Saturday, May 5 at 7:05 pm. They’ll reappear at every Thursday home game for the rest of the season.
