The Mets and Savannah Sand Gnats announced they will move their South Atlantic League affiliate to Columbia, South Carolina for the 2016 season.
“We are excited about returning to Columbia where we had a presence for over two decades (1983-2004),” Sandy Alderson said in a statement. “So many of the top Mets stars, like current team captain David Wright, got their start in Columbia. The plans for Spirit Communications Park look spectacular, and we can’t wait to develop the next generation of Mets Major Leaguers here.”
While located in Savannah, the team has won ten South Atlantic League titles, most recently in 2013, and developed over 100 future major leaguers.
The Gnats will move to Spirit Communications Park, a stadium currently under construction but will open in time for the 2016 season.
“We’re extremely excited to be able to continue our partnership with the New York Mets and bring a tradition of quality baseball and first-class, affordable family entertainment to the Midlands,” Gnats CEO Jason Freier said. “We look forward to a long, bright future at Columbia Common and to doing our part to contribute to the success of the project and the vibrancy of downtown Columbia.”
The Gnats will change their name, logo and brand for the 2016 season – that will be announced at a later date. The club will play against rivals such as the Greenville Drive, Charleston River Dogs, Rome Braves, Augusta Greenjackets and Greensboro Grasshoppers in their new division.
Just Mets 