Celebrating Garden State pride and New Jersey’s official bird, the Trenton Thunder will transform into the “Fighting Finches” for a special one-night promotion.

The eastern goldfinch inspired the alter ego, which New Jersey officially adopted as its state bird in 1935. The MLB Draft League team’s temporary name gives the promotion a strong Garden State connection and historical significance.

The Fighting Finches will debut against the State College Spikes at 7 p.m. July 30 during Garden State Night at Trenton Thunder Ballpark. The event also will feature postgame fireworks and an on-field auction of select game-worn Fighting Finches jerseys to benefit the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey.

Fighting Finches merchandise features a yellow and green color scheme – with some Garden State Parkway flavor. Items are also on sale at thunder.shopbaseballcollective.com.

Getting in the game

“Girl Scouts of Central & Southern New Jersey are honored to be part of Garden State Night at Trenton Thunder,” said Kimberly Bryson, chief operating officer for the GSCSNJ. “This is an exciting opportunity, with our Girl Scouts throwing out the first pitch. We wish the Fighting Finches the best of luck and hope to see you there!”

Thunder General Manager Jon Bodnar said the alternate identity is something the entire state can take pride in.

“We are so excited to honor the great state of New Jersey on Garden State Night with the Fighting Finches taking over our Ballpark,” said Bodnar. “Being able to partner with the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey for the debut of the Fighting Finches has made Garden State Night one to look forward to and get excited about.”

The announcement comes as the Thunder continues to build momentum following the recent sale of the franchise to Diamond Baseball Holdings and ongoing investments in Trenton Thunder Ballpark aimed at strengthening the venue as a regional sports and entertainment destination.

Sports trivia

In 2024, the Somerset Patriots also unveiled an alternate identity. Find out what it was here.