Luis Avilés Jr has plenty of experience in the world of professional baseball. The infielder has seen action in the minor leagues with various MLB organizations and has also seen action in the Winter Leagues of Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and México. Avilés also had a couple of stints in the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol.
In 10 minor league seasons with the Brewers, Marlins, Angels, Padres and Astros organizations the slashed .242/.294/.373/.667 with 72 homeruns and 358 runs batted in, while also stealing 190 bases over that span. The Cuban also hits .232 over four winter seasons and .269 in the Liga Mexicana de Béisbol for h8s career.
Earlier this year he decided to take his career in a new direction, he became part of the Savannah of the Banana Ball Championship League. The league emphasizes showmanship, fan participation, and quick-paced games. The players engage in dance routines, comedic sketches, and other performances between, and often during, innings. They are often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters,
Tell me about the process of joining the Savannah Bananas?
I am currently going through a very special process as I work toward earning a spot within the Savannah Bananas organization. I am part of a team called “The Visitors,” where 36 players are selected to participate in a 10-week program. During that time, we practice, compete, and, most importantly, learn how to connect with fans. In this environment, it’s not only your baseball talent that is evaluated, but also your personality, creativity, and ability to create unforgettable moments for both children and adults.
What are the Savannah Bananas and tells about the type of baseball they play?
The number one rule of the Savannah Bananas is: “Fans First.” That is what makes this experience so unique and special. We still play baseball, but in a very different way. There are fun and creative rules that keep fans engaged in every play. For example, if you hit a foul ball and a fan catches it, you are automatically out. Another rule is that games last only two hours, which keeps the energy and entertainment high from start to finish.
What happens when you complete the training process?
For me, this process is an opportunity to showcase not only my abilities on the field, but also who I am as a person. I want to prove that I can compete at this level while also putting a big smile on the faces of fans—especially the kids. At the end of the 10 weeks, a draft is held, very similar to the MLB Draft. The six teams within the organization select players, and depending on the round in which you are chosen, you receive a bonus. Many players end up earning six-figure salaries within the organization.
What motivates you to take this step in your career?
My greatest motivation came from my son, Liam. One day he asked me, “Dad, why don’t you play for the Savannah Bananas?” That simple question made me realize that I still had goals left to accomplish in my career. From that moment on, I decided to pursue this opportunity and the goal I had set for myself. The biggest reward will be seeing the huge smiles and inspiration my children will have when they see me wearing that uniform. My message to them is that there are no limits in life—you can become and achieve anything you want if you set your mind to it and work hard enough to make it happen. Today, I am here working every day to prove that I belong in this organization and to inspire my children to chase their dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.