Savannah Bananas outfielder RobertAnthony Cruz attempted to bring the team's signature flair to live television, but the stunt did not go as planned.
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Cruz was appearing during a segment on CNN News Central when he tried to perform a backflip inside the network's studio. Known for athletic feats like catching fly balls while flipping, Cruz aimed to show off a bit of that showmanship on air. Instead, his feet slipped and he fell forward, landing face-first on the studio floor.
One of the show's hosts could be heard saying "Oh, Jesus" just as Cruz began the motion, unaware of how badly it would end. He was scheduled to return following a commercial break, but did not. A host later said Cruz was "doing well."
This Savannah Bananas baseball performer face plants a backflip on CNN live. pic.twitter.com/Sw65apsr8x
— Eddie Scarry (@eScarry) July 24, 2025
The Savannah Bananas are a barnstorming exhibition baseball team based in Savannah, Georgia. They play a fast-paced, fan-friendly version of the sport known as Banana Ball, which emphasizes entertainment, fan involvement, and quick games. Players regularly perform choreographed dance routines, comedic sketches, and crowd-pleasing stunts throughout the action.
Often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters, the Bananas operate with four rotating teams made up of former college and minor league players. Former major leaguers occasionally join as guest participants. While their performances are light-hearted, the games remain competitive and unscripted.
Founded in 2016, the Bananas originally competed in the Coastal Plain League, winning three league titles before shifting exclusively to exhibition play in 2023. They now travel nationwide playing against other exhibition squads like the Party Animals, the Firefighters, and the Texas Tailgaters.
The team's viral videos and unique approach to the game have earned them features in ESPN, The Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, and CNN itself. Thursday's mishap may not have been part of the plan, but it was very much in the spirit of a team that thrives on unpredictability.
