7/23/2025-KC Iola Hormigas End 2025 Season with Dramatic Walk-Off Win; Season Marked by Bold Moves and a Last-Minute Relocation to Iola

IOLA, KS — The KC Iola Hormigas capped off their 2025 season in dramatic fashion last night, delivering a thrilling walk-off win in front of a hometown crowd. The exciting finale was a fitting end to a season defined by last-minute decisions and a bold relocation that brought Pecos League baseball to Iola.

Originally, the Pecos League had planned to introduce its newest team in Kansas City, Missouri, playing at the newly renovated Satchel Paige Park. The team was to be affiliated with the Bravos de León of the Mexican League and would have featured a strong Latin American influence. As part of the agreement, the team was also scheduled to play a preseason game in Iola between Blackwell and Kansas City.

However, in March, the Pecos League was informed that the Kansas City deal—despite a strong effort from the city to revitalize Satchel Paige Park and provide player housing in Swope Park—would not move forward. That's when former White Sands Pupfish player and manager Matt Chambers stepped in.

Chambers saw an opportunity for Iola to host a team and contacted the Pecos League with a proposal to relocate the franchise. "The City of Kansas City did a remarkable job with Satchel Paige Park," said Chambers, "but due to its location, consistent attendance would be a challenge. I spoke with a lot of people who love the Pecos League, but many weren’t willing to make the trip to that part of the city."

"Iola made perfect sense," he continued. "It's close to Blackwell, has excellent facilities, available housing, and a staff ready to support the team. They’ve already built one of the best video production setups in the league. By 2026, I believe Iola can rival Garden City as one of the league’s premier teams."

The KC Iola Hormigas' first season may have started with uncertainty, but it ended with a statement—one that promises a bright future for Pecos League baseball in Iola.