Baseball Retention Rate outperforms national benchmarks across all age groups in Australia

23 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Baseball Retention Rate outperforms national benchmarks across all age groups in Australia

Baseball Australia continues to outperform national retention benchmarks, with new data showing strong year on year participant return rates across junior, youth and adult age groups.

Retention rate is a widely used metric across sport that measures how many participants return to the same sport in the following registration year. It is considered one of the most reliable indicators of participant satisfaction, program quality and long term engagement.

Baseball Australia’s overall retention rate currently sits at 69 percent.

This figure exceeds recommended targets across all age categories and places baseball above industry standard retention rates when compared with other Australian sports.

Junior participants aged 5 to 14 recorded a retention rate of 69.15 percent, surpassing the target benchmark of 65 percent.

Youth participants aged 15 to 17 recorded a retention rate of 69.12 percent, well above the recommended target range of 55 per cent.

Adult participants aged 18 and over returned at a rate of 69.68 percent, significantly higher than the typical benchmark range of 50 to 55 percent.

These age specific targets align with benchmarks outlined in VicHealth research, which is commonly used across the sport sector to assess participation and retention performance. In every category, baseball is exceeding both target levels and broader industry expectations.

READ MORE: Baseball participation spikes 22%

High retention has occurred alongside increased baseball participation nationally. As participation numbers continue to grow across junior, youth and adult cohorts, the data shows that players are not only finding the sport but choosing to stay involved from one season to the next.

Baseball Australia acknowledges the support of the PlayWell Grant, which has played an important role in strengthening participation initiatives nationwide. Investment through PlayWell has helped enhance the quality of grassroots experiences and support programs that encourage players to return each season.

22 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

U18 World Cup pitcher Kristian Haeusler commits to Hill College

Kristian Haeusler’s baseball journey is heading stateside.

The Wanneroo Giants right-hander has committed to Hill College, where he will study Business and continue his development as a pitcher beginning with the 2026 fall baseball season.

Haeusler comes out of Western Australia and has already built a resume that spans club, national, and professional environments.

He first represented Australia as a member of the U12 National Team before later progressing to the U18 National Team, gaining valuable international experience early in his career.

Those pathway opportunities continued with selection for the U18 Baseball World Cup, as well as time competing in the Australian Baseball League with the Perth Heat.

“I’ve been watching the Australian World Cup team and Perth Heat players since I was a kid,” Haeusler said. “They’ve had a big influence on my journey and where I want to get to.”

Haeusler has starred this year with those very Heat players he idolised growing up.

He threw 4.1 shutout innings of relief over the weekend in a crucial Perth win.

Primarily a pitcher, Haeusler prides himself on his ability to disrupt hitters rather than simply overpower them.

“My strengths are being able to create defensive swings with all my pitches, leading to weak contact and strikeouts,” he said. “Having experience on the world stage with the U18 World Cup team and professional experience with the Perth Heat has helped me see the game with more knowledge and perspective.”

His pitch mix includes a fastball, sinker, slider and change-up, with continued refinement a key focus as he transitions to college baseball.

“I’m hoping to improve everything while I’m there,” Haeusler said. “But especially gaining velocity on my fastball and improving my command with my secondary pitches to allow for more strikeouts.”

But for Baseball Australia player development manager Andrew Riddell, it’s Kristian’s battle through adversity that impresses him the most.

“Kristian has overcome more than most to get to this position and it is a real credit to him, his support system, his work ethic and determination to continue pitching at a high level,” says Riddell.

He says when he first took note of Haeusler, he was showing glimpses of his ability to spin a breaking-ball and an above-average change up at the U16 Championships in 2023.

Then, Haeusler suffered a shoulder injury and had to surgery which meant missing AYC this year while he continued to rehab.

“He got back to a point even better than he was before surgery and gained an invite to the U18 national selection camp this year where he pitched so well that he was named in the team for the U18 World Cup,” says Riddell. “This showed the coaches and programs in the U.S the level he was able to pitch at and as the offers started coming in, he did a great job working through his questions for him to find the best fit. Hill has been a big supporter of Australian baseballers and it is great to see it continue with Kristian after he finishes an already successful rookie ABL season.”

Haeusler believes Hill College provides the right environment for that next step.

“I see my development growing steadily and on an incline every day,” he said. “They offer great development and an environment where I can keep improving.”

With national team experience at multiple age levels, exposure to elite international tournaments, and time in a professional league already under his belt, Haeusler arrives at college baseball well prepared for the challenges ahead.

22 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

2025 AYC MVP Matt Trainor commits to North Central Texas College

The 2025 Australian Youth Championship Most Valuable Player is headed to college baseball in the United States.

Matt Trainor, an outfielder and left-handed pitcher from Cronulla Sharks (NSW), has committed to North Central Texas College, becoming the ninth member of Australia’s U18 World Cup team to lock in a college opportunity since the tournament concluded in September.

Trainor will study Engineering and is scheduled to depart for the United States in August, where he will join fellow Australian Ethan Bickel at the Texas-based junior college.

North Central Texas has become a familiar landing spot for Australian talent, offering a competitive environment that values two-way athletes and provides a clear pathway to further collegiate and professional opportunities.

Trainor brings versatility on both sides of the ball. As a position player, he features strong bat-to-ball skills and improving athleticism in the outfield. On the mound, the left-hander works with a deep pitch mix consisting of a four-seam fastball, two-seam fastball, curveball, slider and splitter.

He says his strengths lie in his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

“My bat to ball skills and my ability to pitch for outs are probably my biggest strengths,” Trainor says. “My work ethic and resilience have helped me push through challenges.”

Looking ahead to college, Trainor is clear on what he wants to develop.

“I see myself consistently getting stronger in the weight room,” he says. “Working on my pitches to improve command and break, getting faster and improving my range in the outfield, and continuing to improve my swing and approach.”

He says the goal is overall growth — physically, technically and mentally.

“I want to improve my speed, exit velocity and pitching velocity, as well as my mental approach and baseball IQ.”

Baseball Australia’s Player Development Manager Andrew Riddell says Trainor has had an incredible junior career and he’s excited to see him find a place he can “go next level.”

“He already has multiple Australian Youth Championship (AYC), an AYC MVP, a NSW State-League MVP, an U18 World-Cup, a MLB trip & an U23 World Cup Qualifiers on his resume all before finishing high-school because he is able to impact the game in so many different ways,” says Riddell.

“His elite bat-to-ball skills were tested and proven against mid-90’s arms at the U18 World Cup and he also came into the game out of the bullpen in some of the highest leverage situations that we faced and he was able to both strand inherited runners and put up multiple zeroes to give our offence a chance,” he adds. “North Central Texas is going to be a great program for Matt to keep developing on both sides of the ball and continue to impact the game in multiple different ways.”

Trainor credits a wide support network for helping him reach this point.

“All the coaching staff at the Giants, Cronulla Sharks, Petes, Baseball NSW, Baseball Australia and my school Endeavour Sports High have helped get me to where I am,” he says. “My parents have been my biggest influence. They’ve constantly pushed me to get better every day and supported me the whole way.”

National and international events played a major role in preparing him for the next step, particularly the U18 World Cup.

“I’ve played many events and tournaments over the years and they’ve all helped test and improve my skills,” Trainor says. “In particular, the U18 World Cup showed me that I can compete at an international level and that I have the skill to go and play college baseball.”

Trainor departs for the USA later in 2026.

Feature: 2025 ends with a bang - and Div 1 transfer - for North Queensland's Max Strickland

feature story by Connie Rowe

In the space of just a few weeks, he has gone from junior collegiate in Arizona, to signing with Oregon University.

“It all happened so fast,” Strickland admits.

After sharing some of his highlight reels, Strickland received a message from one of Oregon’s scouting coaches requesting a call.

The next week passed in a blur.

Phone calls from and to various coaches, more talent reels and of course a showcase of his academic records later, Strickland found himself standing on the campus of the Oregon Ducks.

While this may have all seemed to take place in the blink of an eye for Strickland, it’s actually been the manifestation of a lifetime of hard work that has led him to this moment.

Strickland grew up in Townsville as a multi-sport athlete, baseball just one of many. A career in baseball was not necessarily on his radar, he just knew he loved sports in general.

As he got older, it was the grind of baseball that kept him coming back.

The right-handed hurler, graced with mid 90mph fastballs, doubled down on his pitching career when the family moved to Brisbane.

“I am so grateful to my family for the sacrifices and opportunities they have given me,” Strickland said.

In fact, they are one of the main reasons he continues to apply and push himself to chase opportunities like his recent Oregon signing.

Now half a world away from his friends and family, still today they are his motivation to keep going.

“I keep pushing because I miss them so much,” he said.

In fact, it’s hard to say who was more excited when the news came around about the signing – Max or his mum.

“I thought she’d take it instead of me, she was that excited!” he said.

Strickland has always displayed discipline and commitment to his craft.

His junior coach Gaje McCahon credits his temperament for his career to date.

“Max was always eager, hungry, and absorbed information like a sponge,” he said.

Strickland comes with a built-in edge, according to McCahon.

“His best attribute is his competitiveness. It’s not something you can coach. It just comes naturally to him,” said McCahon.

Not afraid to work hard, Strickland has always been very self aware.

“He’s always aware of where he ranks against people, but he never lets it rock his drive to perform.”

This pure resilience holds him in good stead as he prepares for this next challenge come July 2026.

“It’s a huge opportunity, not just for baseball but for life to be a student at an institute like the University of Oregon.”

He recognises that it won’t be easy.

“Everything is really sharp in America,” he says about the drills they do. “It’s all done with intent.”

Between study and practice, Strickland has his work cut out for him. He recognises the ups and downs that come with this sport and embraces the lows as much as cherishing the highs.

Even on the other side of the world, his biggest support crew are right by his side.

Strickland credits his friends and family as his biggest driving force.

“I couldn’t ask for a better team behind me,” Strickland said.

Of all, the walk offs, the strike outs, the big stadiums, the moment he told his family the breaking news about his signing, tops the highlights of this pitcher’s career.

“To hear their reactions to the opportunity I have been blessed with was really warming.”

Standing on the Oregon Campus after the rapidfire turn of events, Strickland took a moment to soak it all in.

“There are endless life opportunities and endless connections that come with baseball,” he reflects.

His biggest piece of advice amongst all the hard work is to stop every now and then, enjoy yourself and just take in the moment.

Strickland will be studying psychology alongside his baseball at Oregon University from July 2026.

MORE OF OUR FAVOURITES FROM CONNIE ROWE

– Live from the best seats in the house: A scorer’s view of a national championship
– From Cairns to Williamsport: Daniel del Nido’s journey to the Little League World Series

17 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Women's Baseball

Roos to Join 2026 Australian Women’s Championship as sixth team in tournament

Baseball Australia has confirmed the introduction of a Roos composite squad for the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship (AWC), expanding opportunities for emerging female athletes and strengthening the depth of competition at the premier national women’s event.

The Roos replace the Queensland White development squad, marking a national approach to drawing in the next tier of talented players who narrowly missed selection for their home state. The roster, which will be confirmed in 2026, will feature players from across the country.

The team will compete exclusively in the Open Women’s division — with no Roos team planned for the Australian Youth Women’s Championship.

The addition follows the pathway framework already established with the ACT Roos at the Australian Youth Championships, ensuring that high-potential players from across the country continue to access meaningful national-level experience as participation in women’s baseball grows.

Why the Roos?

With women’s baseball numbers rising nationally, Baseball Australia’s goal is to ensure every Australian Championship is as competitive and developmentally valuable as possible.

The Roos model allows selectors to bring together the next-best available talent from across all states, creating an environment that raises the overall standard of the AWC and offers valuable exposure for up-and-coming athletes.

“This pathway allows us to draw upon the next best players who just missed out on selection for their home state from across the country to keep improving the quality of the Australian Women’s Championship,” said Michael Crooks, Baseball Australia’s Performance Pathways & Player Development Manager.

“With numbers in the women’s game increasing across the country, this is a great opportunity for those up-and-coming players to gain valuable AWC experience.”

Queensland will still enter a single women’s state team at the Australian Women’s Championship but will be moving away from the Queensland White development side.

The shift opens new nationally aligned opportunities through the Baseball Australia Roos program, while Baseball Queensland expands its pathway with a new U18 Women’s Team who will play in Japan, and international development initiatives.

“These changes are about creating more meaningful opportunities and stronger long-term pathways for female athletes,” Baseball Queensland CEO Gareth Jones said.

How This Strengthens Australian Baseball

The timing of the initiative is crucial. The first round of the 2027 Women’s World Cup will take place later in 2026, making the AWC a vital proving ground for national team selection and preparation.

“An increase in the quality of the Australian Women’s Championship will provide more competitive games across the event,” Crooks said. “That’s not only a better competitive experience but also important preparation for the first World Cup stage. It also provides exposure to players transitioning into their state representative program and helps bridge the gap between Youth Championships and the senior AWC.”

Crooks confirmed the model will not extend to the youth age groups in 2026.

“At the youth level, we’ll be sticking with state-versus-state without the Roos,” he said. “The composite model is specifically for the Women’s Championship, where it best strengthens the event and provides that additional layer of opportunity.”

The Roos Women’s squad will begin assembling ahead of the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship, with further details — including schedule and roster structure — to be announced soon.

Look and Feel

The Roos Women’s team will have its own distinct identity at the 2026 AWC.

The design will feature:
– Black Roos logo on a black cap
– Orange jersey design
– A look and feel that stands apart while still fitting seamlessly within the national championship environment

This presentation echoes the broader Roos brand but reflects a tailored aesthetic for the women’s space.

15 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Australian Youth Championships

Letter from Steve Dimopoulos MP, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, ahead of 2026 AYC

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I’d like to welcome you to the Australian Youth Baseball Championships.

We’re proud to have secured Australia’s premier youth baseball tournament in Melbourne for the next three years thanks to our Significant Sporting Events Program, which helps organisations to deliver national and international sporting events.

The Victorian Government’s support through the Significant Sporting Events Program highlights our ongoing commitment to hosting elite youth sporting events that bring communities together, support grassroots development, and drive local economic benefit.

I’m so proud the program has secured more than 1150 events for Victoria, with more than half hosted in regional Victoria, boosting local jobs and economies, and showcasing our iconic regions.

The collaboration between joint hosts Essendon Baseball Club, Preston Pirates and Port Melbourne Baseball Club shows just how important baseball is to Victoria.

We have an exciting 9 days of action ahead of us, including two marquee national titles — the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions, with competition spanning across three suburbs.

It’s fantastic we can welcome the future of baseball to Melbourne, and we’re thrilled to see the next generation of talent compete here over the coming years, continuing the city’s legacy as one of the greatest sporting capitals in the world.

With the championships just a short tram or train ride from our CBD, there are many sights to see while you’re here. Enjoy the world famous Australian Open and see the best tennis players in the world compete for glory. You could also explore our world-famous city laneways, taste some of the best coffee in the world, or experience the latest collections at the National Gallery of Victoria.

For visitors to our wonderful state, I encourage you to also explore the many attractions and wonderful restaurant options Melbourne has to offer, both in and around the city.

I wish you all the best for your time in Melbourne.

And to all the teams – best of luck!

Steve Dimopoulos MP
Member for Oakleigh
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events

12 December 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

Community Women's Baseball

24 hours for Barky: Behind the 24-hour baseball game in Australia for a great cause

by Jena Osman

Players stretched out they’re aching legs, as they waited for the next pitch, each step sweeping the dirt, feet barely lifting off the ground.

The only light came from floodlights that threw long shadows across the pitch. Exhaustion mixed with the dark sky, made it almost impossible to find the ball.

While the rest of Melbourne slept, while Springvale baseball club women were deep into a baseball game. A game with no finish line expect sunrise.

Yet no one complained, and no one thought to stop.

Because this wasn’t just a baseball marathon

This was for Barky.

Beyond Blue for Barky

Six years ago, Beyond Blue for Barky was born and has since become an annual event.

It came out of a place of tragedy. At just 29-years-old, five-time Emerald Jacinda Barclay passed away. She was both a legendary football and baseball player.

Jacinda ‘Barky’ Barclay left a huge mark on the sporting community, partially her friends and teammates at Springvale Baseball Club.

To honour her legacy and raise awareness for mental health, the club has partnered with Beyond Blue, turning November 15th into a signature day for the club.

Beyond Blue is a charity that provides support for people experiencing mental health challenges. The event promotes people to speak up, showing them that they are not alone.

Over the past six years the club has raised just over $22,000, with all proceeds going to Beyond Blue charity.

At the heart of it all is Simone Wearne, one of Australia’s great baseball players – a multiple time national champion and Emerald.

In previous yeas, the event featured anything Barky would have loved. Corn on the cob after their game as Barky and Wearne shared a love of corn.

Another year – it was ‘beers and beats’. You guessed it – the community enjoyed music and beers.

However, this year Wearne wanted to do something that truly reflected Barkys outrageous, Joyful personality.

Something a little crazier.

Something like a 24-hour baseball game.

That’s right, 24 continuous hours of straight baseball.

“It was a double whammy, I thought let’s do something outrageous because that’s what she would have loved and let’s raise way more only in the one day,” Wearne said.

The game was held at Melbourne Ballpark on November 15-16 and raised just over $22,000.

It’s the first 24-hour game that we know in Australia, and the second women’s game we can find since 2003 in Chicago (organised by Baseball Vic member Rob Novotny, nonetheless)

In one day, they raised more than what they had over 5 years.

After huge success, Wearne laughed that she’s already feeling the pressure for 2026.

“Next year I don’t know what we’re going to do, maybe we’ll play in water,” she joked.

Planning the impossible

To people like us, 24 hours of baseball sounds impossible, but to those who knew Barky, it just made sense.

The first person on Wearne call list was Barkys close friend and former teammate, Mandy.

“I told her [about the 24-hour game] and she said oh yeh… that’s crazy, but let’s do it because Barky would love it,” Wearne said.

Apart from the game, a lot of time went into planning, scheduling and rostering.

Rostering was organised via a google form which allowed players to pick a 2-hour time slot in the game. Barky was a huge advocate for women’s sport, so it was only fitting that the game welcomed any registered women’s player to play.

“More then 70 girls played, which she would have loved,” said Wearne. “We had people turn up just to play for 2:30am to 4:30am.”

People didn’t just show up to play, they showed up for each other. What started as a roster in a google form quickly turned into a steady stream of players, rivals, coaches, teammates, coming through the gates at all hours of the night.

“People brought caravans and slept in the carpark in case we needed a few fill ins,” said Wearne. “A player who retired 10 years ago came and pitched 11 innings; it was unbelievable.”

The community that never slept

By midnight, Melbourne Ballpark felt less like a stadium and more like a campfire refused to burn out.

Players shared stories of Barky on the field while friends shared coffee on the benches.

“Some of the girls were struggling to run or couldn’t throw well 10 or 12 hours in, but we just kept going because we knew we had to,” Wearne said.

Not only did Wearne lead the event, but she also played 17.5 of the 24 hours.

Players organised pledges from $10 an hour to $200.

Raising $2000 on her own, Wearne joked that she almost tricked people into pledging by the hour.

“When they saw 17.5 hours, they were abit worried” Wearne laughed, “but they all paid, it was awesome.”

Barky’s legacy lives on

When legs grew heavy and arms weak, Barky’s sprit remained stronger than ever.

Wearne’s face lights up the room when Barky is mentioned. She even still carries the nickname “Granny May,” which Barky had given her years ago.

About a month before the 24-hour game, Wearne and her teammates found themselves wrapped in memories of long flights, hotel hallways, traveling the world with Barky.

“She’d be up late running around the hallways before a game and id be in bed getting my rest,” Wearne laughed.

During the game, those memories didn’t feel distant at all, she was right there with them.

“We could kind of hear her talking to us, saying come on guys, you need to make this happen,” Wearne said.

When fatigued kicked in, Wearne could almost hear her checky voice, ‘you can’t do this Granny May, your too old.’

Adrenaline took over.

“We physically found a way.”

The sun finally rose over Melbourne Ballpark after a night that felt endless and electric.

Emotion overtook the girl exhausted girls.

“Everyone just sort of broke down and went oh my goodness did we just do that, how cool is that” Wearne said.

From close friends of Barky, to players from rival clubs to people who had never even heard her name. They were all brought together for the same cause.

“We honoured Barky and celebrated her but also people are learning about who she was and that’s even more important.”

Not only was money raised for Beyond Blue, but the day created a space for conversations that too often stay hidden. A space for people to feel safe, supported and reminded that they are never alone.

Barkys legacy now stretches far beyond the diamond. Its paving the way for people to ask for help and to speak up to say ‘I’m struggling’ without shame or stigma.

“In 2025 we have to really amplify that we want people to talk and not to be suffering in silence,” Wearne said.

ACT Roos to Compete at 2026 Australian Youth Championships

Introducing: The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Roos, the newest team to compete in both divisions of the Australian Youth Championships (AYC).

Baseball Australia has confirmed a composite team will represent Canberra and provide additional opportunities for players and coaches from across Australia at the 2026 U18 and U16 National Championships (AYC) in Melbourne, January 7–15.

The ACT Roos have been established in partnership with Baseball Canberra to ensure players from the capital continue to be part of the AYC while the territory rebuilds its development and participation pathways.

Canberra has proudly fielded its own teams at past Championships, and this new model ensures that representation continues — with the added benefit of opening doors for players from other states who narrowly missed home-state selection.

“This is a support mechanism to give Baseball Canberra clear air to reset and enact their new pathways strategy,” said Michael Crooks, Baseball Australia’s General Manager – Performance Pathways & Player Development.

The ACT Roos builds on the Roos squad that competed in the 2025 U16 Championships, a team that featured just players from Queensland and Victoria.

“It does not mean exclusion from future events for ACT. In fact, it’s a bridge that allows Canberra’s top talent to stay involved while also giving more players around the country the opportunity to compete on the national stage,” adds Crooks.

The ACT Roos will compete in both the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions at the AYC.

Each team will include:
– Up to five Canberra-based players;
– Supported by one Canberra-based coach per team;
– Additional roster spots filled by players from Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and Queensland;
– A focus on development, competition, and national connection;

Logan Tudor, Baseball Canberra Chair, says he’s encouraged by the prospect of this model.

“Talented players and coaches from Canberra will help form the nucleus of that squad, alongside other athletes drawn from across the country. Baseball Canberra will always endeavour to send teams away to AYCs – but in cases where our numbers are low – the BA Roos model is a sensible alternative for our kids,” he says. “Best of luck to all those involved.”

Baseball Canberra General Manager Justin Oag reiterates that the ACT remains solely committed to providing local baseball talent the best possible environment for their growth within our game.

“Key to this, building on the success of the Baseball Canberra Pathways 25 program is the development and strategic delivery of a long term athletic development framework and return to high performance baseball, for which conversations have commenced and will continue with key stakeholders,” he says.

LOOK AND FEEL

The team will have a unique look and feel.

The team’s look will feature yellow tops with the white Indigenous logo, white pants, and blue caps and accessories — blending ACT identity with national elements.

“We want Baseball Canberra and the ACT to remain recognisable within the event,” Crooks said

“The ACT Roos are a vehicle for Canberra to revive their standalone entry in future years, while giving more players from across the country the chance to experience elite competition and development.”

The composite structure supports Baseball Australia’s key objectives for the AYC — to showcase the nation’s best 140 players at each age group, deliver the highest possible level of competition, and provide development opportunities for players, coaches, umpires, and scorers.

Last year, one player from the ACT Roos’ U16 side impressed so strongly that he earned selection to the National Junior Squad, highlighting the value of this program in identifying and elevating emerging talent.

Above: The Roos at the 2025 U16 National Championship brought together talent from Victoria and New South Wales, coached by mentors from around the country. This year, the ACT will have representation on the squad.

Crooks acknowledged the teamwork shown across the country in supporting the new structure.

“I’d like to thank Justin Oag and the Baseball Canberra Board, led by Logan Tudor, for their collaboration and leadership,” he said.

“I’m also grateful to our state pathway leads — Andy Kyle, Austin Gallagher, Damian Shanahan, Grahame Cassel, and Nick Bachono — who put state patriotism aside to help find the best pathway forward for Canberra and for the development of Australian youth baseball.”

The ACT Roos will now begin assembling their teams ahead of the 2026 Australian Youth Championships.

The tournament schedule will be released soon.

10 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- Team Australia World Baseball Classic

Hendriks, Mead and Bazzana confirm intent to play for Australia at 2026 World Baseball Classic

Team Australia manager Dave Nilsson has confirmed that Curtis Mead, Travis Bazzana and Liam Hendriks have both stated their intent to represent Australia at the 202 6 World Baseball Classic.

Guardians Prospective announced Bazzana’s intention on Tuesday, followed by the World Baseball Classic reporting Hendriks’ intent at the Winter Meetings.

The 2026 edition of the tournament will be played in March 2026, with Australia set to compete in Pool B at the Tokyo Dome. It marks a return to the site of the nation’s historic quarterfinal run in 2023.

The World Baseball Classic is the premier international baseball event, showcasing the best players in the world and providing a chance for nations to compete at full professional strength.

Hendriks, a three-time MLB All-Star and one of the most decorated Australian pitchers in history, has made a celebrated return to baseball after his 2023 battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The Perth native has enjoyed 14 seasons in Major League Baseball and is widely regarded as one of the top closers of his era.

Bazzana, one of the most exciting young talents in world baseball, is coming off a record-breaking collegiate career at Oregon State and was the 2024 first overall pick in the MLB Draft. The Sydney-born infielder previously represented Australia at youth level, the U23 World Cup and the Premier12. He has risen rapidly into one of the sport’s most recognisable prospects.

Mead has played parts of three Major League seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox. He finished strong with the White Sox in 2025 after a mid-season trade.

His news was reported by WBC Reporter Shawn Spradling.

Australia’s WBC roster will be finalised closer to the tournament, but the early commitment from two of the nation’s biggest stars marks a significant step in the build-up to 2026.

08 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

NSW Dual-Threat Ashton Kennedy Commits to Connors State College

One of New South Wales’ most versatile young talents is headed to one of America’s most respected junior college programs. Ashton Kennedy, a genuine two-way threat who pitches and plays both outfield and first base, has committed to Connors State College in Oklahoma.

Kennedy comes through the Blacktown Workers and grew up in the Ryde junior system, rapidly rising through Australia’s high-performance pathways.

His résumé already includes a 2025 U18 National Championship, selection to Team Australia at the 2025 U18 World Cup, and a spot on the MLB Showcase Tour.

In fact, at the World Cup, Kennedy dominated. He hit .444 at the plate while tossing 4.1 shutout innings across three appearances, allowing just one hit and two walks. He won the Leading Hitter Award at the tournament.

On the mound, Kennedy brings a mature and modern pitch mix. He has a fastball with a natural arm-side run with late carry, a sweeper with big east-to-west movement, a sharp and sudden splitter and a sinker that features arm-side action with depth.

Add in his 6’4” frame, athleticism, and ability to contribute offensively, and it’s no surprise American programs showed strong interest.

“My biggest strengths are my work ethic, mental toughness, and the natural advantage that comes with being 6’4″,” Kennedy said. “I’m always reviewing my games, looking for small improvements. Offensively I make consistent contact, and I’m building on the power I bring both at the plate and on the mound. On the mound, I’m working toward having reliable strikeout stuff and doing a good job limiting traffic, which helps me stay calm in big moments.”

Kennedy will begin a Multidisciplinary Studies program in STEM, with long-term academic ambitions extending well beyond baseball.

“My goal is to complete degrees in Physiotherapy and Psychology at a four-year university,” he said.

At Connors State, he’ll be entering a storied program led by NJCAA Hall of Fame coach Perry Keith, known for producing four-year transfers and professional players at an elite rate.

“While I’m away, I want to develop as a complete player,” Kennedy said. “Getting 1% better each day might sound small, but it adds up. Coach Keith and his staff have so much experience, and being in a program with that history of success is an incredible opportunity. They’re excited to work with me as a two-way player, which I’m really looking forward to.”

Kennedy will also be blazing his own trail — he’ll be the only Australian in the program.

“No, there aren’t any Aussies there, but I’m excited about that,” he said. “Starting fresh in a program with no existing connections gives me the chance to step outside my comfort zone, grow, and really make my own path.”

Baseball Australia player development manager Andrew Riddell says it’s been incredible getting to know Ashton and his family over the last year of baseball adventures.

“After missing out on the U16 national squad a couple years ago, he dedicated his time to working on the things he needed to with a very detailed development plan and program,” says Riddell. “This showed at AYC in 2025 where we were all able to see a much more composed and deliberate pitcher who showed over-powering stuff.”

Riddell says the tools were on display at the U18 World Cup

“His growth in his maturity – both mentally and physically – meant he never gave up on what he wanted to do and he became a real asset for Team Australia especially in tournament-play with roster size limits.”

“He took his very detailed approach into the recruiting process and worked through a number of offers from nationally-ranked schools, including those that saw him on the MLB trip and others that saw his video and success on the world stage, before ultimately deciding that Connors State was the best fit for him. I think he is going to have and opportunity be a factor on both sides of the ball at a powerhouse program.”

Kennedy’s journey has been shaped by a long list of influences, from MLB veterans to family and local mentors.

He says two stand apart – a local teammate and his family.

“On a personal level, Lefty (Nathan Wright) has probably had the biggest impact — as my high-school and State League coach, he’s always given me honest feedback and real guidance. And honestly, it all started at home. My dad coached almost all my teams growing up, and with two older sisters who played, I had role models from the very beginning.”

A series of international tournaments also helped accelerate his development. He was one of the leading batters at the U18 World Cup. His strong performance earned him selection to the MLB World Select team in Arizona, where he tested himself against top global prospects.

Kennedy has already been named to a Sydney Blue Sox roster this season.

For Kennedy, the move to Connors State is the next logical step in a journey that has gathered momentum with every opportunity.

“I’ve been really fortunate to compete all over the world, and each tournament has prepared me for what comes next. Connors State feels like the perfect environment to keep growing and take my game to the next level.”

NSW right-hander Lachlan Robinson commits to Weatherford

One of New South Wales’ brightest young right-handers is headed to one of the most respected junior college programs in the United States.

Lachlan Robinson, a national champion who plays his club baseball for the Blacktown Workers, has committed to Weatherford College in Texas — the same powerhouse program that Victorian infielder Will Hardy committed to last month.

Robinson will study General Studies/Education.

Weatherford has built a strong reputation within the junior college ranks as a program that consistently develops pitchers, sends players on to elite NCAA Division I schools, and produces professional talent.

For Robinson, it represents the next step in a journey that has rapidly accelerated over the last twelve months.

Robinson features a deep pitch mix — a four-seam fastball, two-seam fastball, cutter, slider and curveball — and was a key member of New South Wales’ gold-medal winning team at the 2025 U18 National Championships.

He also attended Australia’s U18 National Team Camp in August.

“The 2025 U18s AYC was my first taste of national baseball outside of juniors,” he says. “It was the moment I realised I had a chance at playing baseball overseas. Playing against some of the best talent in Australia boosted my confidence as a pitcher knowing I can compete.”

He says the U18 World Cup selection camp further sharpened his focus.

“The camp helped me set a clear goal and made me a better, more focused and goal-oriented pitcher. Even after getting cut, I was able to get back to work and compete day in and day out.”

He says one of his biggest assets on the mound is the way he carries himself and his raw potential he is trying to unlock.

“My biggest strengths are having a big presence on the mound, my rawness to pitching, and my velocity,” Robinson says.

Baseball Australia player development manager Andrew Riddell says Lachlan is another example of a strong arm in the U18 age group with a high ceiling.

“Obviously with his height, frame and where his velocity is already at there’s a lot to like,” he says. “But it is really exciting to see him commit to a great program with a structured player development approach and continue his hard work to becoming a well-rounded pitcher.”

Riddell says Robinson deserves full credit for his hard work.

“He didn’t make a state team until second-year U18s where he really put himself on the map. Even after missing out on the World Cup team at U18 selection camp, he remained positive with how much growth and development he still had to come to reach the higher levels he wants to play in,” says Riddell.

“He is evidence to all young players that development and maturity happens at different ages and regardless of what club or level you start at. Working hard and continuing to push yourself leads to positive outcomes,” he adds.

At Weatherford, his focus is clear.

“I want to be able to improve my pitchability in all counts and land all of my pitches for strikes, keeping hitters guessing,” says Robinson. “I want to improve my command and velocity.”

Riddell says Weatherford was Lachlan’s choice among many options.

“Lachlan worked his way through zoom calls with some of the best junior colleges in the country that we reached out too and settled on Weatherford to keep developing him to a level where Division 1 and professional baseball is a reality,” says Riddell. “I can’t wait to see him and Will Hardy together for the next few years!’

Robinson credits his baseball influences with helping him reach this stage. Chief among them is his uncle, former Sydney Blue Sox player James Yates.

“My uncle was a big influence on my career and journey,” Robinson says. “He played on some of the biggest levels in Australia with the Blue Sox and travelled to the U.S. multiple times. He sparked my love for the game early when I watched him play. It made me dream of playing baseball at the highest level. Since then he has helped me develop physically and mentally.”

He says his parents were just as important.

“They always pushed me to keep going even when facing tough decisions and challenges. That ultimately made me the player I am today,” he says.

Robinson started playing baseball as a junior with McKillop Baseball Club with time spent at Greater Western Sydney.

Robinson will depart for the United States in August 2026, where he will join Hardy at Weatherford and begin the next chapter of his development in one of America’s most competitive junior college conferences.

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