story by MARIO BOUCHER | photos courtesy of THE WILSON WARBIRDS
The Wilson Warbirds, formerly the Carolina Mudcats and the Milwaukee Brewers’ Single-A affiliate, are swinging for a home run in their first season. The team plays in the brand-new $69 million Wilson Ballpark, which seats approximately 4,500 fans and is located about 50 miles east of Raleigh. The Warbirds bring a full day of fun for the whole family, featuring state-of-the-art concession stands, grab-and-go stations, and in-game amenities such as a main scoreboard in centerfield and a video board along the left-field line.
After 35 seasons in Zebulon, the Mudcats relocated to Wilson because the town was unable to fund Major League Baseball–mandated stadium upgrades, estimated at $7.5 million to $22.5 million. The move, which also resulted in a rebrand for the team, will employ more than 200 part-time and seasonal workers.
“The entire Wilson community has been so great in welcoming us into their homes and businesses, and we are elated to be able to welcome them into ours for the inaugural season of Warbirds baseball,” says Chris Edwards, manager of broadcast and media relations for the team.
Choosing a Name
Inspired by vintage aircraft, “Warbirds” conjures images of majestic military planes and carries a local connection to “Wilson native Vollis Simpson, a WWII pilot-turned-artist whose Whirligig sculptures—several stories tall and powered by the wind—tower in Whirligig Park, located directly behind left field in the new downtown ballpark,” Edwards says.
The team’s logo symbolizes historical significance, unmatched speed, and a passion for baseball, aviation, and Americana. It incorporates the official palette of navy, sage, antique white, bristol (a warm, muted beige), and smalt, (a deep cobalt blue). Fans can cheer on Wilt, the Warbirds’ mascot—a red-tailed hawk common to the region—sporting classic aviator and bomber gear.
“Warbird restoration is a reverential process that parallels the active revitalization of Historic Downtown Wilson and echoes a commitment to preserving cultural legacy while embracing innovation,” he adds.
Wilson’s Hardball Legacy
Did you know that Hall of Famer Rod Carew, along with other notable baseball figures—Cal Ripken Sr., Charlie Manuel, Ted Abernathy, and Jack McKeon—began their professional careers in Wilson? Starting with the Wilson Tobacconists in 1908, the city hosted minor league baseball continuously through 1973 with the Wilson Pennants.
“There is a reason we remember seeing a young superstar hitting a home run many years ago and recounting that memory to children and grandchildren for decades to come,” Edwards says. Milwaukee Brewers top prospects like Braylon Payne are beginning their journey in Wilson, taking their first steps toward reaching the “Big Leagues.”
Braylon Payne, a top Milwaukee Brewers prospect, brings his talent to the Wilson Warbirds.
Build it, and They Will Come
The Warbirds’ inaugural 66-game home schedule, running from April through August, is already drawing fans to Wilson and boosting revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses. Beyond baseball, the ballpark hosts corporate outings, family gatherings, and a variety of special events, making it a true community hub.
The team has established ties with local organizations, strengthening its connection to the Wilson community. Edwards says, “From Education Days to Faith and Family Night, Girl Scout and Boy Scout night, and many more, the Warbirds’ organization is proud to live, work, and volunteer in the community that we call home and look forward to all opportunities to love and serve our community and fans.”
With affordable tickets and concession prices, the Warbirds deliver plenty of entertainment, including theme nights and fireworks after every Friday and Saturday home game.
Wilson’s new baseball team is giving the community a chance to make lasting memories, offering a place where the magic of the game is always on full display.