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Lynchburg Hillcats Franchise Rebrands as Hill City Howlers for 2026 Season
The Lynchburg Hillcats franchise has officially rebranded as the Hill City Howlers beginning with the 2026 Carolina League season, marking the first name change in more than three decades. The team, remaining the Single‑A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, unveiled a dramatic new identity featuring five monster-themed mascots: Indy the Werewolf, Victor the Vampire, Murray the Mummy, Daisy the Bride, and Gilly the Creature in a rebrand described as unprecedented in Minor League Baseball. Additionally, the field staff was announced, with Erlin Cerda promoted to manager, while carryover players like pitcher Joey Oakie aim to build on the team’s 2025 Carolina League championship momentum.