MINK League calls off season

Dede Cole of the Renegades dives back into first base during a game against the Clarinda A's last season at Vivion Field.
Dede Cole of the Renegades dives back into first base during a game against the Clarinda A's last season at Vivion Field.

The decision is not to play this summer.

The MINK League, made up of teams featuring college baseball players, will not play this season.

"It is with great disappointment that the MINK League has determined that we cannot play this season," MINK League commissioner Ron Rodriguez said in a statement Wednesday. "We join the many other leagues across the United States that have been affected by the COVID-19 virus and the fallout from it. But we must have the safety of our communities, host families, players, coaches, staff and officials as our main concern.

"Our communities are a vital part of the MINK League and we enjoy and appreciate their support. We made every effort to play this season and delayed the decision to make the most educated decision possible."

Two of the league's nine teams - the Jefferson City Renegades and the Chillicothe Mudcats - had already announced they were not going to play this summer due to concerns about the health and safety of players, staff and host families.

The MINK League will return next summer.

"The summer tradition that is MINK League Baseball is something we hold very special. 2021 is going to be a very special season, a celebration," MINK League president Ky Turner said in a statement. "We want to thank all of the health care and frontline workers that have worked to keep us safe, and our thoughts are with those affected. We wish everyone to be safe and well."

The other teams in the MINK League include the Clarinda A's, the Clinton Creatures, the Des Moines Peak Prospects, the Joplin Outlaws, the Nevada Griffins, the Sedalia Bombers and the St. Joseph Mustangs.

The nine teams will convene in the fall to plan the 2021 schedule.