Baseball United selects Mumbai as first-ever franchise

Baseball United, the first-ever professional baseball league for Middle East and South Asia, has revealed that Mumbai will be home to its first franchise. The Mumbai Cobras will become the first professional baseball team in India, as well as the broader GCC and south Asian region.

The team will be revealing their manager later this week, while other franchises of the league will be named over the course of the upcoming two months.

Kash Shaikh, President, CEO and Co-Owner of Baseball United, commented:

“This is a historic moment. For the first time in history, this cricket-loving region will now have a professional baseball franchise. We look forward to connecting with fans across this beautiful city and working together to build India’s next great sport.

“It’s our honour to welcome the Mumbai Cobras to Baseball United.“

Barry Larkin, Baseball United Co-Owner and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, added:

“I’m so excited that Mumbai is our first franchise.I’ve had the privilege of visiting India to teach the game, and I’ve seen first-hand the passion, talent, and potential within the people of this city. Our team and I can’t wait to get started building with the community and connecting with our fans.“

Four franchises are set to take part in Baseball United’s Dubai Showcase event, scheduled to be held later this year in November. Baseball United will also hold its first-ever Draft, which will have the selection of Showcase players from the Player Pool. 

Baseball United’s ownership group also includes Mariano Rivera, Adrián Beltré, Félix Hernández and Elvis Andrus.