The Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League) have announced six finalists for their name the team contest, which could result in the team adopting the Stud Muffins, Rumble Ponies, or another creative moniker.
Back in March, the B-Mets announced that they would rebrand after this season, leading to a new identity after 25 seasons. The contest began with fans submitting ideas for names in April, with the finalists being announced prior to last night’s game at NYSEG Stadium.
The results have yielded some choices that represent a vast departure from the current name. Below is the list of names, each with a description from the B-Mets:
Binghamton Bullheads
A local inhabitant of the Susquehanna River, a Bullhead is a bullhead catfish. The bullhead displays a tough and resilient character such as the Binghamton community
Binghamton Gobblers
A symbol of the rich hunting culture of the area, the “Binghamton Gobblers” honors the outdoorsman lifestyle and turkeys who call Binghamton home.
Binghamton Rocking Horses
The “Binghamton Rocking Horses” celebrates the Triple Cities’ rich history as the “Carousel Capital of the World.”
Binghamton Rumble Ponies
A tribute to the Triple Cities’ carousel heritage, the “Binghamton Rumble Ponies” is a herd of fierce horses that no carousel center pole can contain.
Binghamton Stud Muffins
While tipping a cap to the players on the field, the “Stud Muffins” celebrates the collection of carousel horses belonging to Binghamtonians.
Binghamton Timber Jockeys
Combining the fun of Minor League Baseball with the rich carousel history of the Triple Cities, the “Binghamton Timber Jockeys” pays homage to everyone that rides the carousels.
These identities were chosen following a submission process that led to more than 1,500 entries by fans. “The submissions from the citizens of Binghamton and surrounding area speaks volumes about the passion and boundless creativity of our fan base,” said B-Mets president John Hughes in a statement. “This really was a tough job. The spirit of the submissions only reaffirms the decision that the team name should be reflective of the community that we represent”.
Voting is already underway, and will run through June 1. The new name will be announced in October.