Clinton Lumber Kings

Former Clinton LumberKings infielder Nick Fleckenstein, who played for Clinton during the 2022 season, is continuing his baseball journey in one of the most exciting and unique ways in the sport today—Banana Ball.

Fleckenstein, an Iowa City West graduate and former LumberKing, has earned a spot in the Savannah Bananas organization after being selected as one of just a dozen players out of more than 1,200 who tried out nationwide. He will begin his professional Banana Ball career with the Bananas’ developmental team, The Visitors, ahead of the 2026 season.

Banana Ball is a fast-paced, fan-first version of baseball that blends high-level competition with entertainment, creativity, and constant interaction with the crowd. Fleckenstein embraced the challenge, spending months training not only his on-field skills, but also learning dances, trick plays, and the unique rules of the game.

“Getting the opportunity to play at the next level was something I couldn’t turn down,” Fleckenstein said. “The energy, the creativity, the connection with fans—it all really appealed to me.”

After playing at five colleges across the country and finishing his career at Bradley University, Fleckenstein was determined to keep playing baseball beyond college. His persistence paid off when he received the call offering him a spot in the Bananas organization.

Fleckenstein played for the LumberKings during the 2022 season, where he quickly became a fan favorite with his hustle and versatility. Now, he takes the next step in his professional career with a league that continues to grow in popularity across the country.

The Savannah Bananas and their affiliated teams are scheduled to play nationally, including a highly anticipated stop at Kinnick Stadium in July 2026—an opportunity Fleckenstein hopes to be part of as an Iowa native.

The Clinton LumberKings congratulate Nick on this exciting next chapter and wish him the best as he continues to represent Clinton and Iowa on a national stage.