Jack In The Box Brings Iconic Foul Pole Head To San Diego Little League Fields, Expanding Local Legacy

San Diego's own Jack in the Box is stepping up to the plate by bringing one of its most recognizable symbols from the major leagues to neighborhood ballfields across the county. The fast-food chain has begun installing giant replicas of its mascot’s signature round head on foul poles at select San Diego County Little League fields, giving young players a big-league feel with a playful local twist.

The activation expands on a longstanding San Diego tradition. Since 2004, an 8-foot-tall Jack in the Box antenna ball replica has grinned down from the right field foul pole at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres. The oversized Jack head - with its blue dot eyes, red smile, and yellow clown hat - has become a quirky landmark for fans and a reminder of the company's roots in America’s Finest City.

Now, that same iconic head is being mounted atop foul poles at three local Little League fields: Imperial Beach (425 Imperial Beach Blvd), Peninsula League in Point Loma (4390 Famosa Blvd), and San Carlos (7001 Murray Park Dr). The goal is to bring a touch of the major league experience to young sluggers just learning the game.
"From antenna balls to foul poles - Jack in the Box celebrates its San Diego roots and is now cheering on both the pros and future pros throughout local Little League fields," the company shared in a statement. "Every kid deserves to feel like an MVP when they step up to the plate."

The community-focused effort highlights Jack in the Box’s continued presence and cultural influence in San Diego, where the brand was founded in 1951 by local entrepreneur Robert O. Peterson. The original location - on El Cajon Boulevard near 63rd Street - pioneered the drive-thru format that became a fast-food staple, and today the company remains headquartered in San Diego.

This lighthearted campaign comes at a time of transition for Jack in the Box. The company recently announced plans to close up to 200 underperforming restaurants nationwide as part of a corporate restructuring strategy. But while some locations may be on the chopping block, this newest activation underscores the brand’s commitment to giving back to its home city and investing in local communities.

With its cheerful grin now watching over Little League fields as well as Petco Park, Jack is more than just a mascot - he's a hometown fixture cheering on the next generation of players across San Diego.

Originally published on May 13, 2025.