Introducing Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark

Spring brought the excitement of new seasons in Waco, with Baylor baseball celebrating a record-breaking investment in the future of the program.

In January, Baylor announced the largest gift in the history of the baseball program, a transformational contribution from Magnolia, the Waco-based global brand founded by celebrated Baylor alumni Chip, B.B.A. ’98, and Joanna, B.A. ’01, Gaines. 

This historic gift officially names the playing surface Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark, providing critical support for upcoming capital projects and the enhancement of the student-athlete and fan experiences.

“Baylor has always been more than a university to us — it’s a place that shaped who we are and continues to shape leaders who care deeply about people,” Chip and Joanna Gaines shared in a joint statement. “Baseball, in particular, has played a meaningful role in our family for generations. This gift is rooted in our gratitude for the coaches who pour into their athletes, the student-athletes who show up with heart and discipline every day and the fans who gather to cheer them on.”

The family visited Baylor Ballpark for the first practice of the season to see the on-field recognition of Magnolia Field and visit with members of the Baylor baseball program.

The public celebration of this partnership took place under the Friday night lights on April 17, as the Baylor Family gathered for the series opener against rival TCU. 

In a pre-game ceremony that captured the spirit of community, the inaugural ceremonial first pitches on the newly named Magnolia Field were thrown by athletes from Waco’s Challenger League — a program that provides children with physical and intellectual challenges the opportunity to play baseball. Catching those pitches was none other than Chip Gaines himself, a moment that bridged Baylor Athletics and the local community it serves.

The energy from the ceremony clearly fueled the action on the dirt. In front of a crowd of 3,505 — the largest at the ballpark since 2017 — the Bears delivered in a major way. Trailing early, Baylor showcased the grit that has become its trademark this season, erupting for five runs in the eighth inning to secure a commanding 11-4 victory over the Horned Frogs.

By partnering with alumni like the Gaines family who share a commitment to Waco and Baylor’s mission, the University is ensuring that Magnolia Field remains a place where “lessons are passed down, relationships are built and memories are made.”

To learn more about ways to partner with Baylor Athletics, visit bearfoundation.baylorbears.com.