MODESTO, Calif. —

John Thurman Field in Modesto will host a new Pioneer League baseball team starting in 2026, reviving the stadium with professional baseball and unique events.

The empty seats and concession stands will soon be filled with fans.

"It will be a game changer, right?" said Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen, expressing excitement for the return of baseball to Modesto.

Dave Heller, owner of the new Modesto team, highlighted the unique opportunities the minor league team will bring, such as a candy drop.

"The helicopter circles back and drops 1,000 pounds of giant marshmallows all over the children. Those are the sorts of things you can't do in affiliated ball today. But we can do them here in Modesto," Heller said.

The arrival of the new team will also bring upgrades to the stadi

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