Breaking news for the City of Meridian...
Mid-America League Awards Meridian, MS Expansion Franchise
Team Set to Begin Play at Meridian Community College in May, 2026
Meridian, MS – The Mid-America League is proud to announce that Meridian, Mississippi has officially been awarded an expansion baseball franchise, set to begin play in the summer of 2026. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the league’s continued growth across the South and solidifies Meridian as one of the newest homes for independent baseball.
“From day one, the Mid-America League has focused on communities with pride, history, and a passion for accessible, family-friendly entertainment and Meridian checks every box”, stated Mark Schuster, Founder of the Mid America League. “The city’s leadership, its cultural footprint, and the energy around this opportunity made this decision easy. This opportunity would not have been possible without the leadership and vision of Mayor Percy Bland and Dr. Thomas Huebner, MCC President. We are honored to plant our flag in Meridian for the 2026 season.”
Launched in 2024, the Mid America League has quickly become one of the premier summer baseball leagues in America. The league features top collegiate players alongside post-college players pursuing professional baseball careers. These athletes include players who were undrafted, unsigned free agents, or former professionals working to return to affiliated baseball. The league compensates its players through a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program. The Meridian team will play a 64-game summer schedule - 32 home and 32 road games – spanning from mid-May to mid-August.
“Meridian, Mississippi is honored that the Mid American League has chosen our city for its next expansion franchise”, stated Meridian Mayor Percy Bland. “They chose us because our momentum is real. Our businesses are engaged in investing in our neighborhoods and our story is reaching people far beyond our city limits. Bringing this level of baseball to Meridian, Mississippi gives our families another reason to be proud of the place we call home and it shows that our community is ready for the next chapter.”
The Mid-America League currently consists of franchises in: Joplin, MO; Fort Scott, KS; Texarkana, TX; White Oak/Longview, TX; Beaumont, TX; Nacogdoches, TX; and Bryan, TX. The Mid America League is committed to growing and strengthening baseball in the region.
“We see Meridian as a model market for the future of this league,” said Nick Weisenborn, Commissioner of the Mid-America League. “The fan enthusiasm is already building, the facilities are strong, and the community partnerships are outstanding. Meridian is going to be a premier destination for Mid America League baseball, and our players will love calling this city home each summer.”
Meridian’s expansion franchise will play its home games at Skaggs Field on the campus of Meridian Community College. "Meridian Community College is honored to be the host site for this inaugural season in a facility celebrated as one of the premier venues in community college baseball, stated Dr. Thomas Huebner, President of Meridian Community College. “This partnership builds on baseball excellence in Meridian and marks an exciting new chapter for our community."
A public press conference to unveil additional details — including team name, branding, and community engagement initiatives — will be held on January 14th at 11:00am at the Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience (MAX) in downtown Meridian.
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Name the Team Contest
The team is looking to the Meridian community to help name this team. Fans are encouraged to go to www.baseballinmeridian.com to submit their suggested team name. Fans can also sign up to receive information about season tickets, sponsorship and general information for the 2026 season. The person submitting the winning name will win two season tickets for life!!!