Chanclas and cultura: History of Mamapeño, the mascot who has won baseball hearts across San Antonio

As Hispanic Heritage Month wraps up on Wednesday, Mamapeño, the official mascot of the Flying Chanclas de San Antonio, has become a favorite at the ballpark — especially among fans and local abuelitas or grandmothers.

Mamapeño debuted in 2018 as part of a Minor League Baseball initiative that gives teams identities rooted in local culture.

The initiative is called the Copa de la Diversion, which features several teams that embrace the culture and values that resonate most with the local U.S. Hispanic communities of Minor League Baseball teams.

Mamapeño was created to represent the matriarch of many San Antonio families, personifying discipline, respect and love for the city’s traditions, team officials said. She appears at Wolff Stadium during games when the Missions take the field as t