PEORIA, Ill. — The Peoria Chiefs announced Thursday that the team will be a part of MiLB Copa de la Diversión in the 2020 season, with a team identity of En El Rio de Peoria.
The MiLB Copa de la Diversión, or Fun Cup, is a platform that connects teams with their diverse communities and embrace the Hispanic/Latino culture.
Jason Mott, Peoria Chiefs General Manager, said it is a big initiative in Minor League Baseball.
“Culture is a big thing in what we do. You look at our team, [it is] very diverse. Last year we had 13 Hispanic players on our team,” Mott said. “Biggest we’ve ever had.”
In 2018 the program began with 33 teams, then expanded to 72 teams in 2019.
“I love the program. A lot of teams are trying to get behind it. Now you are going to have 92 out of 160 teams are going to try and get behind this program,” Mott said.
During the 2020 season, En El Rio jerseys and hats will be worn for five games. Those five games will showcase Latin games, music, food, and more.
Peoria City Council member Jim Montelongo, who is also a part of the Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce said the Hispanic community is growing in Peoria.
“I think this sends a really positive message of inclusion. And it’s really to just show and recognize the contributions that they do both on the baseball teams and in the community,” Montelongo said.
Montelongo is the first elected Latino councilman for Peoria.
President of the Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Christell Frausto, said this event is very rewarding.
“The Dozer stadium is just a gem in Peoria. The Peoria Chiefs have been very generous and very inviting and embracing of the heritage of their players and community,” Frausto said.
