Photo: DebraMillet / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
The Syracuse Mets will keep their current name for at least two more seasons after discovering their chosen rebrand was already trademarked. General Manager Jason Smorol announced the delay on Thursday (February 19) in a self-deprecating video posted to social media, declaring that "the Syracuse Mets messed up."
The Triple-A franchise had planned to unveil a new name for the 2027 season, but according to syracuse.com, the team's trademark search revealed someone else already owned the rights to their preferred name. "We screwed up," Smorol said in the video. "The trademark search came back and someone already had the trademark."
Smorol explained the team had already completed focus groups, selected a name, and created accompanying artwork when the issue was discovered. He said the conflict came from outside the sports industry, involving another business. The general manager declined to reveal what the new name would have been, but noted it was unique enough that the team didn't anticipate any trademarking problems.
"We thought the name was out-there enough in our world," Smorol said. "I guess it wasn't out-there for other worlds. In the baseball world it was, 'No way.'"
Rather than rushing to develop an alternative name for 2027, the team decided to take additional time to ensure they select the right identity. "We decided it was best to take our time and make sure we get it right," Smorol said. "It's an important decision."
The franchise will partner with Brandiose, a branding company that has worked on creative names for various minor league teams, including the Rocket City Trash Pandas, El Paso Chihuahuas, and Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. Smorol said the team received 5,111 name suggestions from fans when they announced the rebrand initiative last August.
The Syracuse Mets will continue to play as the Syracuse Mets for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The team maintains its affiliation with the New York Mets through at least the 2030 season. The 2026 season kicks off with Opening Day on Friday (March 27) on the road against the Worcester Red Sox, with the home opener scheduled for Tuesday (March 31).