After an unforgettable first professional season with the Savannah Bananas, former University of Hawaii baseball standout Andy Archer is back in the islands.
The right-handed pitcher, who played one season for the Rainbow Warriors, made a splash with the Bananas, a team known for its over-the-top entertainment and viral social media moments. Archer became a fan favorite with his “archery” gimmick and performances that contributed to the Bananas’ reputation as the most entertaining brand in baseball.
For Archer, returning to Hawaii feels like coming home.
“This year, as fun and amazing as it was, it was tough being on the road for so long,” Archer said. “One thing that really motivated me towards the end of the year was knowing I could come back here. I’m just grateful to know there’s a place that has accepted me. I feel a responsibility to represent Hawaii well and be a good ambassador for the program.”
Reflecting on his season, Archer shared two moments that stand out from his time with the Bananas.
“The first one, there was a documentary about the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. I was selected to do a dance to the song Thunderstruck. At 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, I was the obvious choice, right? I did it and crushed it,” Archer joked.
“The second one was really special. It was in Philadelphia, our biggest crowd of the year—50,000 people. I was a little nervous to pitch, but I looked up and saw my dad right behind home plate. I had a great outing, and that’s a moment my dad and I will always remember.”
Archer is now partnering with Home Plate Hawaii and will host a baseball clinic for kids ages 9 to 12 on Dec. 22 at Pearl City High School.