Newly formed minor league baseball team in Ontario, reveals its chosen nickname
Dodgers' New Minor League Team, the Tower Buzzers, to Debut at ONT Field
In a move aimed at honoring local heritage and creating a unique identity, the city of Ontario has named its new minor-league baseball team, the Dodgers' affiliate, as the Tower Buzzers. The announcement was made on September 18, 2025, approximately eight months before their first game in 2026.
The Tower Buzzers will call ONT Field their home, a state-of-the-art $120-million ballpark set to open in 2026. City officials are optimistic that the facility will attract both sports tourism and local families, serving as an anchor for the Ontario Sports Empire, a 200-acre facility dedicated to training and competition.
ONT Field is designed as a family entertainment venue with unique aviation-themed features. The stadium will boast an ice cream parlor, a food hall, and a bar shaped like a luggage carousel. After a home run, the splash pad will erupt, and propellers will whirl in the bar.
The Tower Buzzers' mascot, a bee named Maverick, is a nod to Tom Cruise's character in the movie "Top Gun." However, it's worth noting that the reference might not be immediately understood by a younger generation.
The ballpark is not just a sports venue; it's part of a larger development plan. City officials plan for restaurants, hotels, and shops to surround the ballpark and sports complex, aiming to create a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Ontario is experiencing significant growth, with about 1,200 new homes being added each year. The population of the city is projected to double from close to 200,000 to about 400,000 within two decades.
The Dodgers' new minor league team will face competition from other California League teams. The Angels' affiliate will play in Rancho Cucamonga, eight miles away, while another team plays in San Bernardino, 25 miles away. However, the presence of the NHL's Kings' minor league affiliate in the city's arena could provide a competitive edge.
Interestingly, the Angels themselves are 35 miles away from ONT Field. The city of Ontario is not only investing in sports but also promoting its airport, making it a hub for sports tourism in the region.
As the first pitch approaches in 2026, the Tower Buzzers will take to the field, ready to buzz their way into the hearts of Ontario's residents and visitors alike. The team's home jerseys will simply say Buzzers, a fitting reminder of their energetic and buzzing spirit.
