Monterey Amberjacks Denied Return to Ballpark

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The Monterey Amberjacks, a minor league baseball team that had played at Sollecito Ballpark since 2017, will not be returning to the field in 2026. The city's Parks and Recreation Commission denied the Pecos League's request to host nine Sunday games from late May to late July, citing the high administrative costs and lack of available staff resources to oversee the team's operations.

Why it matters

The Amberjacks' departure marks the end of an era for baseball in Monterey, as the team had become a fixture in the community over the past nine seasons. The decision highlights the financial and logistical challenges that small-market minor league teams can face, even when trying to return to a familiar home field.

The details

The Parks and Recreation Commission estimated the cost of hosting the Amberjacks' proposed 2026 season at $3,985, accounting for staff salaries and field use fees. However, the commission said the fees collected would not fully offset the $19,262 in indirect costs associated with administrative oversight, coordination, and compliance monitoring. Additionally, the commission noted there are no other local fields available for the team to use.

• The Amberjacks' contract with the city of Monterey to use Sollecito Ballpark ended with the 2025 season.
• In February 2026, the Amberjacks posted on social media that they would be leaving the city after failing to secure a contract for the 2026 season.
• The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the Pecos League's request to use the field for games in 2026.
• The City Council will vote on whether to pursue another agreement with the Amberjacks on March 17, 2026.

What’s next

The issue will be put before the City Council for a final vote on March 17, 2026 to determine whether the city will pursue another agreement with the Monterey Amberjacks.