When the Arkansas Travelers announced the first phase of rebranding last fall — which included unveiling a new logo and a “swamp camo” jersey — the team promised to later unveil a new mascot that they described as “a legendary creature, an omen known to bringing good luck.” Shelly the goofy, buck-toothed horse that served as the team’s mascot since 1996 has been “upgraded” to Ace, a menacing, 7-foot horse. As a horse, even a ‘roided-out bad-guy horse, isn’t typically considered “legendary,” that leaves Otey the Swamp Possum as the hyped one.

Well. Has there ever been a more misguided mascot selection? Custom Characters of Glendale, California, who according to the Travs release have worked with Disney and DreamWorks to create characters, definitely didn’t take a cue from Pogo. This swamp possum is all sharp claws and rat face. True to form, his backstory includes growing up “watching Travs games … from underneath the stands” at Ray Winder. Can’t wait to see the costumed version of Otey, who, by the way, is named in honor of former Travs infielder and groundskeeper R.C. Otey, who passed away several years ago. I’m sure his family is touched.