New Kissimmee Club Announces Name Finalists

After the Binghamton Mets announced the finalists for their new name next season (hello, Stud Muffins), it seemed like they’d be the team to beat in terms of outright silliness. The new Kissimmee club, however, is making a run at the crown, too. Their announcement on Thursday winnowed the list of potential monikers for the new Florida State League franchise to the following six: Rodeo Clowns, Dragonflies, Fire Frogs, Toucans, Sorcerers and Mud Kickers.

The team announced a voting contest through the website probaseballbackincentralflorida.com, and the above six finalists were arrived upon. The site also lists the rationale for each of the potential names, which are as follows. Voting continues through Aug. 18 at the site, and the winner will be announced in late August.

Dragonflies: Known for their resilience and fighting spirit, a name among the likes of these prehistoric Florida insects falls in line with other wacky names in Minor League Baseball.

Toucans: The Florida Toucans celebrate the area’s tropical climate that the world “flocks” to (more than 66 million visitors a year in fact!). Imagine steel drum bands, tropical shirts, and an umbrella in your favorite ballpark drink.

Mud Kickers: In a nod to Osceola’s strong heritage, the Mud Kickers will help preserve two great American traditions—baseball and rodeo. Saddle up, and let’s play ball!

Fire Frogs: Going head-to-head with our “coqui” is not for the faint of heart. These fiery frogs are sure to bring the Florida heat to the opposition and will be sure to leave our fans hopping for more.

Sorcerers: The Florida Sorcerers speak to the region’s strong entertainment industry. Fans can expect an enchanted ballpark where the mystical forces of good and evil come to life.

Rodeo Clowns: The Rodeo Clowns commemorate the world famous Silver Spurs Rodeo. So grab your hat and boots and join the team for an experience more fun than a barrel of Rodeo Clowns.

The new team in Kissimmee will be the former Brevard County Manatees, which are currently in their final season at Space Coast Stadium and will move into Osceola County Ballpark starting next season. Their debut will mark the return of baseball to the city for the first time since 2000, when the Kissimmee Cobras left town.