For baseball fans in Wake County, the news that the Carolina Mudcats will be leaving after next season feels like the end of an era. Nestled in Zebulon, Five County Stadium has been a cherished spot for families, friends, and fans to gather and enjoy America’s pastime. With its charming, classic ballpark feel, easy accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Mudcats games have become a staple of the local sports scene.
Since their arrival in 1991, the Mudcats have brought exciting baseball and memorable experiences to the community. Five County Stadium, with its intimate setting, makes every game feel like a personal experience, from catching foul balls to hearing the crack of the bat echo across the field. The Mudcats have not just been a team—they’ve been a part of the community fabric, hosting fun theme nights, fireworks shows, and creating countless family memories over the years.
The Carolina Mudcats are the Single-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, making them a crucial part of the player development pipeline. Fans have had the chance to witness rising stars who could one day make it to the major leagues, adding an extra layer of excitement to each game. The Mudcats’ connection to the Brewers also brings a bit of big-league flair to this beloved minor league team.
Adding to the fun, the Mudcats occasionally take the field as their alter egos—the Mini Brewers and the Pescados de Carolina. As the Mini Brewers, they celebrate their parent club in Milwaukee, donning special uniforms that connect fans to the broader baseball world. The Pescados de Carolina persona embraces the area’s vibrant Hispanic culture with colorful jerseys and lively game nights that bring an extra burst of energy to the stadium.
The Carolina Mudcats have even had their brush with Hollywood fame, making a cameo in the 1996 movie Space Jam, where the team’s logo can be seen during Michael Jordan’s baseball scenes, connecting the Mudcats to one of North Carolina’s most famous athletes. Similarly, the Durham Bulls, just a short drive away, have their own claim to fame as the centerpiece of the beloved baseball film Bull Durham, which starred Kevin Costner and highlighted the heart of minor league baseball. These appearances have cemented both teams not just as local favorites, but as part of baseball lore celebrated by fans everywhere.
While we are excited to see what the future holds for the Mudcats, it’s hard to imagine a summer without the familiar sights and sounds of baseball at Five County Stadium. The Mudcats have given us decades of joy, memorable games, and a deep sense of community spirit. We hate to see them go, but we’re grateful for all the fun, excitement, and unforgettable moments they’ve brought to Wake County.
As the Mudcats prepare for their next chapter, we look forward to cheering them on from afar. Their legacy in Wake County will never be forgotten, and their presence here has enriched our community in ways that go far beyond the game. Thank you, Carolina Mudcats, for all the memories. We wish you nothing but success in the seasons to come.
Until then, let’s make the most of their final season in Wake County. Come out to the ballpark, enjoy a game under the lights, and let’s send off the Mudcats with the same passion and support they’ve shown us for so many years.
