Salem's minor league team rebranded from Red Sox to Ridge Yaks in Nov. 2025, boosting sales and sparking debate.

On November 8, 2025, Salem’s minor league baseball team rebranded from the Red Sox to the Ridge Yaks, sparking mixed reactions from fans. While opinions remain divided, the change has driven a noticeable increase in merchandise sales, signaling strong consumer interest. Team officials view the public debate as a sign of engagement and a successful step toward building a unique local identity. The rebranding has generated significant community attention, with promotional efforts ongoing ahead of the 2026 season.