This is a guest post written by Katie Bee
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and the same goes when it comes to its love for baseball. There is something special about going to the ballpark, running up to the concession stand to get your game day hot dog while “Welcome to the Jungle” is blasting over the field speakers. Now, the people of Pecos, Texas, get to experience this electric atmosphere right in their backyard.
Established in 2011, the Pecos League of Professional Baseball Clubs comprises 16 teams stretched across two divisions. Though the league is known as “The Pecos League,” the city of Pecos, TX, was not represented. However, it was no secret that baseball was a deep-rooted love for the community of Pecos. Andrew Dunn, Commissioner of the Pecos League, and Pecos city leadership decided to change that. In May 2024, the Pecos League welcomed a new addition to their world of baseball, The Pecos Bills.
The Pecos Bills have found a home in Cyclone Ballparks, a facility operated by the Sports Facilities Companies. The team kicked off their home opener on May 28 against one of their Mountain Division opponents, The Alpine Cowboys. Despite suffering a hard first loss, the exciting vibes didn’t wane. Cyclone Ballparks General Manager Thomas Ward points out, “It’s baseball. You’re going to win. You’re going to lose. That is the beauty of playing a competitive sport, and that’s why the fans enjoy it.” And as the season has progressed, momentum has grown.
Now, the Pecos Bills are earning victories on the field while establishing an identity off it. In implementing a culture of connection, the team has volunteered regularly at the local pantry, started a canned food drive, and held a car wash at a nearby college. Beyond that, community members have been spotlighted by throwing the first pitch and by singing the national anthem at several home games.
For the Pecos Bills, the focus is building experiences and entertainment for fans in Pecos and beyond. Ward says, “You remember those games you went to growing up. It is always a fun experience. You crave it, but it’s even more exciting when you have those personal connections with the team and get to talk to the player that hits a home run.”
In future seasons, Ward hopes to have yard games, player meet and greets, and other social activities to make the venue a true hub for the community.
The Pecos Bills and Cyclone Ballparks aren’t just swinging bats – they’re hitting home runs for community engagement. With a mix of on-field action and off-field impact, this rookie team is proving that baseball dreams and local pride go together like hot dogs and mustard.
