The Long Beach Coast independent baseball team has named Long Beach Airport its first official and founding partner ahead of the club’s inaugural 2026 season, officials announced Thursday.
The Coast will play in the 12-team Pioneer Baseball League, one of four MLB Partner Leagues. Unlike minor league teams, teams in partner leagues do not have formal affiliations with major league teams.
Under the agreement, Long Beach Airport will serve as the team’s official airport and appear as a jersey patch partner, marking the first commercial partnership in franchise history for the new professional baseball club, according to the team.
“From the very beginning, Long Beach Coast has been about building something authentic for this city,” Ena Patel, president of Long Beach Baseball Club, said in a statement. “Partnering with Long Beach Airport as our first and founding partner is incredibly meaningful.”
Long Beach Airport, which has operated since 1923, serves as a regional transportation hub.
“We’re proud to partner with the Long Beach Coast as they bring professional baseball back to the city,” Cynthia Guidry, director of Long Beach Airport, said. “Both of our organizations are deeply connected to this community and committed to creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
The Coast will play their opener May 19 against the Yuba-Sutter High Wheelers in Marysville, in Yuba County, to begin a 12-game road trip. They will play their home opener at Blair Field June 2 against the PBL Travel Team, which only plays road games.
The Coast will be managed by former Angel star reliever Troy Percival. Their coaching staff includes former Angel Troy Glaus, MVP of the 2002 World Series.