There’s a sentiment going around that I can’t quite wrap my head around: the criticism aimed at the Savannah Bananas. Every time a new clip of Banana Ball makes its rounds on social media, it seems like the naysayers come out in droves, lamenting how “ridiculous” it is or claiming it isn’t “real baseball.” But, honestly, isn’t that the entire point?
It’s akin to being upset with the Harlem Globetrotters for not adhering to strict basketball principles. Or, attending a Broadway production of “The Book of Mormon” and expecting it to be a typical church service.
So, naturally, when country music star Riley Greene serenaded the Bananas in Atlanta and even hit a single, a wave of critics emerged on Twitter/X, insisting, “Leave the singing and dancing out of baseball!”
Interestingly, quite a few comments can’t even be repeated here due to their… shall we say, harsh implications about the folks on the Savannah Bananas team. It’s almost as if some can’t handle their partner finding Riley Greene appealing.
I’m not suggesting that everyone has to love the Bananas. If it’s not your cup of tea, that’s fine. Personally, I’ve never grabbed a ticket for a Banana Ball game. But I also don’t let my disdain for it define my personality. If you’re a parent looking for a fun outing with young ones, why not embrace the whimsical games they offer?
After all, if they’re good enough for Maggie Sajak, then maybe there’s something to them.
All I’m saying is, some folks online could benefit from accepting a little joy and silliness in their lives. There are much bigger issues in the world than watching adults do choreographed dance routines on a baseball field.
On a side note, I’m headed to Florida this Friday, looking forward to sunbathing and momentarily forgetting my worries. So, I regret to say I won’t be joining the nightcap next Tuesday. But good news: my friend Matt Reigle is stepping in, and he’s a fantastic substitute.
Better than the Savannah Bananas, even.
So, in my spirit, grab a fruity drink with an umbrella and let’s dive in.
Hilary Duff makes SI Swim cover debut
What a year this has been for Hilary Duff! Two decades ago, she was a household name with a hit show on Disney Channel and a music career. Then, she sort of… faded away, living privately and raising a family, but has made a striking return lately.
She’s rejuvenated her music career, transformed into a “muscle mommy,” and has now landed the cover of SI Swim.
Hilary was one of four cover models announced for 2026. But don’t worry, we’ll share more about the others.
Alix Earl:
Tiffany Haddish:
Nicole Williams English:
Honestly, I wasn’t familiar with Nicole Williams English until today, but she’s 41, which is impressive.
Carrie Underwood rocks the ‘American Idol’ stage with Mötley Crue
Oh, and I discovered something intriguing recently: “American Idol” still has viewers. Crazy, right?
Last night, after work and the gym, I decided to unwind at a local bar with my girlfriend. Upon entering, I couldn’t believe my eyes and ears. “American Idol” was playing on every screen, and the volume was cranked up. Seriously?
Well, it turns out a crowd had gathered to watch the season 24 finale, so the bartender made it happen across all TVs.
A contestant, Hannah Harper, took home the crown—or maybe a record deal, whatever they get for winning. This is notable since she’s the first female country artist to win in the “Idol” category since Carrie Underwood’s victory back in 2005!
Speaking of Carrie, the highlight was undoubtedly her performance alongside Mötley Crüe.
And oh, how could I forget? The buzz at the bar was partly because a finalist, Jordan McCullough, hails from right here in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It seems the whole town was in the loop, except me!
Embarrassingly, I didn’t realize he was our local sensation. Congratulations, Jordan, on snagging second place!
Would you like to try hang gliding?
Last week, he shared his first hang gliding experience at Lookout Mountain Flight Park in northwest Georgia.
When he posted photos on Instagram, people were curious: “What’s it like? How do you stay in the air? Are you serious?”
It seems likely. But since people wanted answers, he detailed the whole experience. You can read about it below and catch the footage on YouTube. Would you be interested in trying it?
Hang Gliding Observation Deck: What it’s like to be towed by an airplane 1,700 feet above Georgia
Weird people appear at the Met Gala
Eric P. writes: I really enjoy all the pictures and videos of people at the Met Gala trying to look cool or edgy. Honestly, I don’t care about being at the end of the bar, gazing at myself and thinking, “What is wrong with you?”
Amber:
I totally feel you, Eric. Seeing someone wear something foolish at the Met Gala gave me the confidence to strut out in a lampshade and bare feet.
Readers are wondering, do dogs belong on the bed?
Recently, both Candice Parker and Aliyah Boston claimed they allow their dogs to share their beds. I get the appeal, but my husband and I—somewhat harshly—make our 80-pound German Shepherd sleep somewhere else, like a cozy couch or his fancy memory foam bed.
So, I asked everyone: Should dogs share the bed?
Cindy F. from Kansas writes: A resounding YES! Yes, there was dog hair on my bed and countless times my dog would push me out of bed in the night. But there’s a comforting warmth of having a dog beside you—companionship when you’re sad or sick. Their love and joy far outweigh any mess! ☺️
Fred H. writes: I have a cattle dog, Tate. He’s entirely devoted to my wife and me. He’s around all the time. At work, at home—there’s no way I’m telling him he can’t sleep on the bed.
Nemo from Nebraska writes: Thanks for all you do! I’m the proud owner of three Golden Retrievers, but I don’t allow them in my bed. I mean, there’s just not enough room for three 75-pound fur balls!
Gene in the Rock writes: My pup Lexi, while not a sleeper, insists on being where I plan to lie down. Every night, I have to lift her and roll her aside like a blanket. It’s quite the scene!
John C. writes: I have two Shih Tzu mixes that sleep with me. Their spots are at the foot of the bed, though we once had a Shepherd mix who joined us until she passed.
Jeff M. writes: Exhibit A: This is why my dog doesn’t sleep on the bed. Cleaning the house is a whole undertaking, especially when their “gas” can clear a room!
Mike L. writes: This is Arlo, my 16-pound buddy who comfortably camps between my wife and me with the help of stairs. Not taking up much space!
What I liked
Honestly? My dog. 😊
OutKick Nightcaps is a daily column that runs Monday through Friday at 4 p.m.
