Salem is about to add another semi-pro team to the fold when the Marion Berries make their debut next summer.
The Marion Berries are the latest expansion team for the West Coast League (WCL), a summer collegiate wooden-bat league with teams based in Oregon, Washington and Canada.
They are the 17th team to join the league, forming a natural rivalry with the Portland Pickles, Corvallis Knights and Springfield Drifters.
“We wanted to create a deep connection with Salem and the community we serve,” said Luke Emanuel, owner and president of Marion Berries, in a press release. “That started with the first step: the team name and logo. We believe we have created something true to Salem and this county.”
The team will play its home games at Spec Keene Stadium at Bush’s Pasture Park, home of the Willamette University baseball team. Located in the heart of Salem and in partnership with Willamette, the team will be able to provide opportunities for players with local ties to the community.
“Just as the Willamette Valley is to marionette berries, our partnership with Willamette University and the renovation of its baseball stadium will create the perfect conditions for the best college student-athletes from across the country to grow and thrive as baseball players and young people,” Emanuel said. “We will provide a high-level game and a great level of entertainment for our community.”
The name of the ball club coincides with the unique tie between the Willamette Valley and Marion Berries. They were first developed and grown in Marion County in 1956 and continue being a key part of the berry market in the state.
“This is an authentic community that’s true to itself,” said General Manager Pat Zajac. “We wanted a team name and brand that stayed true to the region while also evoking the fun and excitement of summer baseball, so characteristic of the sport. Having something simply cool is an added bonus.”
The team created a logo that features an “Oregon farm stand” concept with deep hues of purple and red, and marion berries that look juicy and independent.
The team is looking for fan input on future decisions including food options, design ideas, entertainment, etc.
“We need fan input to bring this team to life,” Zajac said. “We need ideas for jerseys, entertainment, fun food, whatever. We want to hear from you. And yes, there will be plenty of Marionberry pie and Marionberry-themed drinks at the stadium.”
Fans can begin putting down a deposit for season tickets for all 27 home games. The deposit is fully refundable.
“When you think of Salem and you think of the Willamette Valley, you think of those summer traditions like going berry picking at a local farm with your family,” Zajac said. “We have the best berries you’ll find anywhere in our garden. Let’s celebrate that.”
