Kokomo Creek Chubs: Kokomo’s New Baseball Era Begins

Kokomo baseball fans, get ready! The city’s newest team officially has a name, a logo, a coach and a general manager!

During a Facebook Live video on the City of Kokomo’s page earlier today (Oct. 31, 2025), city officials and team leadership revealed the long-awaited name of Kokomo’s new collegiate summer baseball team: the Kokomo Creek Chubs.

The announcement was followed by a trio of press releases outlining the team’s branding, leadership, and future plans as part of the Prospect League.

A Name Rooted in Kokomo Pride

According to the official press release from the Kokomo Creek Chubs and the City of Kokomo, the name “Creek Chubs” pays tribute to the creek chub, a small but resilient freshwater fish native to Indiana’s rivers and streams including Wildcat Creek, which flows just beyond Kokomo Municipal Stadium’s outfield.

The team’s colors navy blue, teal and silver symbolize the tones of water: depth, freshness, and modern vibrancy. Together, they create a brand that connects Kokomo’s natural environment with its deep baseball heritage.

Joe Thatcher, a Kokomo native, former Major League pitcher, and part of the team’s ownership group, said the choice was about community spirit and character.

“The name Creek Chubs captures both the personality of Kokomo and the environment that surrounds us,” Thatcher said. “As we embark on this new chapter of baseball in Kokomo, we sought a team name that embodies the fun and energetic spirit mirroring the decades of passion shown by local baseball fans here in this great community.”

Mayor Tyler Moore echoed that excitement, calling the reveal “the first step in bringing summer baseball back to Kokomo,” adding that the city looks forward to the 2026 inaugural season.

Meet the Leadership: Familiar Faces with Kokomo Roots

The announcements didn’t stop there. The Creek Chubs also revealed two key hires, Head Coach Jason Taulman and General Manager Matthew Howard both bringing deep Indiana baseball experience and strong Kokomo ties.

Head Coach: Jason Taulman

Taulman, who has spent nine seasons coaching at programs including St. Joseph’s College, Butler University, Ball State University, and Marian University, was introduced as the team’s first-ever head coach. He also currently leads the Lawrence North High School baseball team in Indianapolis.

“I’m honored and excited to be the first head coach of the Kokomo Creek Chubs,” said Taulman. “Kokomo is a great baseball town, and we’re going to bring something special to this community.”

Thatcher noted that Taulman’s player-development mindset and leadership make him “the perfect person to set the tone” for the organization.

General Manager: Matthew Howard

Joining Taulman in building the program is Matthew Howard, named the team’s first General Manager. Howard’s baseball résumé runs deep: he played for the Slippery Rock Sliders in the Prospect League, coached the Kokomo Jackrabbits from 2014–2016, and later founded and led the IU Kokomo baseball program, achieving multiple winning seasons and over 100 victories.

“Kokomo has always felt like home,” said Howard. “We’re going to build an organization this community can be proud of and wants to root for.”

Thatcher praised Howard’s leadership and local experience, saying his “deep roots in Kokomo and exceptional understanding of both the game and the community” make him an invaluable addition.

A Fresh Chapter for Baseball in Kokomo

The Kokomo Creek Chubs are part of the Prospect League, a collegiate summer baseball organization that offers top college players a competitive environment paired with fan-friendly, community-centered entertainment. The Creek Chubs will play their inaugural season in summer 2026 at Kokomo Municipal Stadium.

Backed by Bullpen Tournaments, Prep Baseball, and an ownership team rich in baseball experience, the organization’s vision is to deliver a high-caliber summer baseball experience to both players and fans — bringing back the energy and excitement of summer nights at the stadium.

Stay Connected

Fans can follow the Kokomo Creek Chubs online at www.prospectleague.com/Kokomo and on social media at KokomoCreekChubs for updates on the team’s progress, merchandise, and upcoming events.

Sources:
– City of Kokomo Facebook Live video (October 31, 2025)
– Official press releases from the Kokomo Creek Chubs and City of Kokomo (October 31, 2025)