The MINK League announced on Wednesday that one of its newest members will not play in the collegiate summer baseball league this season. The Clinton Creatures, who were scheduled to make their debut in the MINK League this season, will not play in 2020 due to the difficulties in putting their inaugural team together during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Clinton owner Titus Bond and the Creatures organization issued a statement on Wednesday:
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Clinton Creatures will sit out the 2020 season. The team will field a team during the 2021 season. The Creatures are a new expansion team in the MINK League with 2020 having been set for their first season.
Creatures owner Titus Bond detailed how difficult of a decision it was to make. "We are proud to be a part of the Clinton community. From day one this community has embraced us. We are proud of what we have been able to accomplish over such a short period. Our team operates off of support from area business sponsorships and season ticket packages. With the economic uncertainty that the coronavirus has presented, we cannot, in good conscience, ask local companies to sponsor our team."
The Creatures will continue to work with Clinton city officials, stay involved in the community over the next year and are excited about working on some new projects to prepare for the 2021 season.
"We want to make sure to thank our loyal sponsors, host families, and fans. We look forward to starting our first season in 2021."
Current sponsors and season ticket holders will be given the option to apply their payment towards the 2021 season or to receive a refund.
There will now be eight teams, including the St. Joseph Mustangs, that will compete during the 20202 season. The MINK League has announced they still plan on playing the upcoming season as scheduled.