Tides Fall to Jumbo Shrimp in 11-Inning Thriller

Norfolk's 'Take Meow to the Ball Park' event draws feline fan

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:19am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting a cat running and playing amid the blurred shapes of a baseball stadium, conveying the excitement and unpredictability of a unique fan experience.A cat's-eye view of the action as feline fans take over the ballpark during a minor league baseball game.Norfolk Today

The Norfolk Tides lost a close 7-1 game to the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp in 11 innings during a special 'Take Meow to the Ball Park' event at Harbor Park in Norfolk, Virginia on April 8, 2026.

Why it matters

The Tides-Jumbo Shrimp matchup was a highly anticipated minor league baseball game that drew a large crowd, including a special appearance by a cat named Koala who played in the stadium seats during the event.

The details

The game went into extra innings tied 1-1 before the Jumbo Shrimp pulled away with 6 runs in the 11th inning to secure the victory. The 'Take Meow to the Ball Park' promotion featured various cat-themed activities and merchandise for fans.

  • The game took place on April 8, 2026.
  • The 'Take Meow to the Ball Park' event was held before and during the game.

The players

Norfolk Tides

The minor league baseball team based in Norfolk, Virginia that is the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles.

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

The minor league baseball team based in Jacksonville, Florida that is the Triple-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins.

Koala

A cat who made a special appearance and played in the seats during the 'Take Meow to the Ball Park' event at Harbor Park.

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What they’re saying

“The cats really stole the show today. They were the real MVPs out there.”

— Tina Wilcox, Tides fan

The takeaway

The Tides-Jumbo Shrimp game highlighted the growing trend of minor league baseball teams embracing unique promotions and fan experiences, like inviting cats to the ballpark, to attract new audiences and build excitement around the sport.