Gastonia Ghost Peppers announce they’ll shut down, leave Atlantic League

GASTONIA, N.C. – Professional baseball is leaving Gastonia once again. The Gastonia Ghost Peppers announced Wednesday they are ceasing operations and withdrawing from the Atlantic League.

Team owner Zawyer Sports & Entertainment cited a “difficult decision” to shut down after just three seasons, following low attendance numbers.

This marks the second time in three years a local independent baseball franchise has folded at Caromont Health Park, following the Gastonia Honey Hunters’ bankruptcy in late 2023. Management and league executives say they are working with the city to find a new team or facility operator.