The Edmonton Prospects, a collegiate summer level team in the Western Canadian Baseball League, rebranded as the Energy City Cactus Rats this week. The new name is a tribute to Edmonton’s identity as a hub of industry and perseverance (Energy City) as well as the gritty determination of its residents (Cactus Rats).
In the timeless tradition of baseball animal nicknames like Sod Poodles (prairie dogs), Sea Unicorns (narwhals), and PaddleHeads (moose), Cactus Rat is a nickname for a porcupine, the second-largest rodent found in Alberta. The character is wearing a neon work vest, a nod to Edmonton’s working-class roots, and flipping a baseball bat that has porcupine quills embedded in it. The brand colors are blue, gray, neon yellow, brown, black, and white.
“The Cactus Rats are tough, adaptable, and always find a way to thrive—just like our team and our fans,” said Managing Partner Pat Cassidy, quoted on the team’s website. “We wanted a name that captures the spirit of Edmonton baseball, and we believe we’ve found the perfect fit.”
The Cactus Rats franchise debuted as the Edmonton Big River Prospects in 2005, then played two seasons as the St. Albert Prospects (2006–2007) before becoming the Edmonton Prospects in 2008. The Cactus Rats will debut May 29, 2025.
