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26 March 2026 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- Aussies Abroad Aussies Sign Pro

Where Australians are expected to begin their 2026 professional baseball seasons

Play ball! It’s go time for the top professional baseball leagues in the world this weekend.

While there are no Australians on active MLB rosters, there are three on KBO (Korea) squads.

But what about the other full-time professional baseball playing Australians? In total, there are 42 Aussies who call baseball their job.

Here is a list of where they are expected to begin their 2026 season. While minor league rosters haven’t been announced yet, if you see a * next to a player’s name it means it is unconfirmed but expected.

We keep a log of all Aussies playing pro-ball via the Aussies Abroad section of our website.

There are also a large number of Australian coaches in the professional systems.

KOREAN BASEBALL LEAGUE (KBO)


Regarded as a Top 3 professional league in the world, and the best in Korea. Games are played in front of 20,000-30,000 people. Fans can find streams via SOOPTV through https://www.sooplive.com/ 

– LHP Lachlan Wells (NSW)…LG Twins
– INF Jarryd Dale (VIC)…KIA Tigers
– LHP Jack O’Loughlin (SA)…Samsung Lions
– C Alex Hall (WA)…Ulsan Whales (Minor Leagues)

TRIPLE-A (MLB Affiliated)


The level below the Major Leagues

– INF Travis Bazzana (NSW)…Columbus Clippers (Cleveland)
– RHP Brandan Bidois (QLD)…Indianapolis Indians (Pittsburgh)
– INF Curtis Mead (SA)…Charlotte Knights (Chicago White Sox)

DOUBLE-A (MLB Affiliated)


A league where most top prospects play. Many players get called up straight to MLB from here.

– LHP Blake Townsend (VIC)…Frisco Roughriders (Texas)*
– RHP Mitch Neunborn (WA)…Reading Fighting’ Phils (Philadelphia)*

HIGH-A (MLB Affiliated)


A league for more polished prospects. 

– RHP Kai-Noa Wynyard (QLD)…HubCity Spartanburgers (Texas)*

SINGLE-A (MLB Affiliated)


Generally, a league for younger prospects finding their footing with their first experience in professional travel ball.

– INF Clayton Campbell (NSW)…Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit)*
– RHP Adam Bates (NSW)…Salem RidgeYaks (Boston)*
– INF Brent Iredale (NSW)…Bradenton Marauders (Pittsburgh)*
– INF Max Durrington (QLD)…Stockton Ports (Athletics)*
– LHP Kailen Hamson (QLD)…Delmarva Shorebirds (Baltimore)*
– OF Drew Davies (SA)…Daytona Tortugas (Cincinatti)*
– INF Nikau Pouaka-Grego (VIC)…Clearwater Threshers (Philadelphia)*
– INF B-Jay Cooke (WA)…Stockton Ports*

ROOKIE BALL (MLB Affiliated)


An introduction to professional baseball, generally used for younger players aged under 20. They will be based in complexes in Florida, Arizona, or Dominican Republic. 

– RHP Rubens Romero (QLD)…Pittsburgh Pirates*
– RHP Juan Manuel Ramirez (QLD)…Toronto Blue Jays*
– RHP Jack Bushell (SA)…Detroit Tigers*
– RHP Alistair Tanner (SA)…Detroit Tigers*
– LHP Mitch Evans (SA)…Detroit Tigers*
– INF Jayden Kim (VIC)…Pittsburgh Pirates*
– RHP Robinson Smith (VIC)…Pittsburgh*

WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL LEAGUE (WPBL)


Part of the new professional women’s league in the USA, scheduled to begin in August 2026

– RHP Maddison Erwin (ACT)…New York
– OF Ticara Geldenhuis (NSW)…Boston
– RHP/1B Claire O’Sullivan (NSW)…New York
– OF Elodie O’Sullivan (NSW/WA)…Los Angeles
– OF Molly Paddison (QLD)…Boston
– RHP Allie Bebberre (VIC)…Boston
– RHP/INF Caitlin Eynon (WA)…Los Angeles
– C Leah Cornish (WA)…Los Angeles
– C Chloe Atkinson (WA)…New York

INDEPENDENT LEAGUES


Non-affiliated professional leagues in North America. These seasons begin in May, so expect to see a few more Australians picked up between now and then. 

– LHP Cooper Morgan (ACT)…Quebec Capitales in the Frontier League
– RHP Jackson Grounds (QLD)…Down East Dawgs, Frontier League
– RHP Billy Parsons (VIC)…Sussex County Miners, Frontier League
– OF Briley Knight (WA)…Billings Mustangs, Pioneer League
– UTIL Robbie Glendinning (WA)…Kansas City Monarchs, American Association
– LHP Josh Hendrickson (WA)…Kansas City Monarchs, American Association

BANANA BALL


The new craze, played in front of tens of thousands of people

– Brett Allen (NSW)…Texas Tailgaters
– Liam Spence (VIC)…The Firefighters

—-

26 March 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- Aussies Abroad Aussies Sign Pro

Opening Day news: Three Australians set for Opening Day in the KBO, none crack MLB rosters

Three Australian baseball players will start the season in the top level of Korean Baseball (KBO).

Infielder Jarryd Dale (Victoria), left-handed pitcher Jack O’Loughlin (South Australia) and left-handed pitcher Lachlan Wells (New South Wales) have all cracked the Opening Day Rosters of their respective KBO teams.

The KBO season is scheduled to begin on Saturday 28 March. Fans can find free Korean streams on SoopTV via https://www.sooplive.com/ 

You can read about each of the players below.

Unfortunately, no Australians have made an Opening Day Roster in Major League Baseball (MLB). Liam Hendriks was released by the Minnesota Twins earlier in the week, while Curtis Mead was optioned to Triple-A by the Chicago White Sox on Thursday.

Major League Baseball, the premier competition in the sport, begins its regular season on March 27. Sixteen (16) players with Australian Baseball League experience are on Opening Day Rosters. 

Curtis Mead, Brandan Bidois (Pirates / Queensland) and Travis Bazzana (Guardians / New South Wales) are all considered high chances of playing in Major League Baseball at some point this season.

In total, 22 Australians are currently affiliated with MLB organisations, while more than 30 players are competing professionally around the world.

In Korea, three Australians will feature in the KBO’s Opening Day slate.

Victorian infielder Jarryd Dale will make his Korean professional debut with the Kia Tigers when they face SSG Landers on March 28. The 2026 World Baseball Classic representative enters the highest level of his career to date.

Left-hander Lachlan Wells has been named to the defending champion LG Twins roster. The Newcastle product, who also starred for the Adelaide Giants in the Australian Baseball League, returns to Korea after time with the Kiwoom Heroes in 2025. The Twins open their title defence against KT Wiz on March 28, with games available via SOOP.

South Australian Jack O’Loughlin will begin the season with the Samsung Lions. The left-hander joins on a six-week injury replacement contract but has the opportunity to extend his stay across the full campaign. O’Loughlin, Australia’s most recent Major Leaguer, will face the Lotte Giants on Opening Day, with coverage also available on SOOP.

While several Australians have secured Opening Day spots, a number of rising talents remain within reach of the game’s top levels.

Top prospect Travis Bazzana is set to begin the season in Triple-A with Columbus, one step below the Major Leagues.  The 23-year-old is widely expected to make his MLB debut with the Cleveland Guardians later this year.

Right-hander Brandan Bidois is another name to watch. The Brisbane product enjoyed a breakout 2025 season in the Pittsburgh Pirates system, earning Minor League Pitcher of the Year honours. He is expected to open in Triple-A and could be among the first call-ups.

Infielder Curtis Mead is likely a first call-up by the Chicago White Sox this season. The 25-year-old from Adelaide has spent parts of three seasons in Major League Baseball with the Rays and White Sox.

Veteran Liam Hendriks is currently a free agent after being released by the Minnesota Twins earlier this week. The 37-year-old remains one of Australia’s most accomplished pitchers and is seeking his next opportunity in Major League Baseball.

23 March 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Community

Queensland's Paddy McLoughlin commits to college at Dodge City

Paddy McLoughlin says an experience playing against the United States helped shape his path to college baseball.

In 2024, as a member of Australia’s U16 squad, McLoughlin toed the rubber vs the United States’ prolific Under 15 squad.

He said he felt like he belonged.

“For every pitcher that comes off the mound they bring on another one equally as good,” McLoughlin said. “Playing at that level really helped me to see where I need to be when I get to the USA.”

Now, the Redcliffe Padres product is heading there himself after committing to Dodge City Community College, where he will begin in August 2026.

McLoughlin’s pathway has been shaped through Queensland representation and consistent exposure to high-level competition.

He has been part of the state team at the Australian Youth Championship for four consecutive years, while also gaining international experience through tours to Taiwan and Perfect Game events in the United States.

He says each opportunity added perspective.

“The level was high,” he said. “You meet really good players and you start to understand what it takes.”

His time with Team Australia at U16 level proved especially important. Facing elite opposition gave him a benchmark, and a clear direction for his development.

Listed as both a pitcher and outfielder, McLoughlin’s immediate impact at college is expected to come on the mound.

His pitch mix includes a fastball, two-seam fastball, curveball, slider and changeup, with a strong emphasis on feel and movement.

“My off-speed pitching and movement of the ball are my strengths,” he says.

The next step is building on that foundation.

“I’m looking to improve my velocity and overall mechanics,” adds McLoughlin.

Behind the scenes, McLoughlin’s development has been shaped by strong support at Redcliffe Padres. From Little League through to A-grade, he credits his coaches and family for helping guide his journey.

“My Mum and Dad have always supported me,” he said. “My coaches at Redcliffe have believed in me since I was young.”

Coaches such as Phil Overlack played a key role in providing opportunities at A-grade level and introducing strength training, while former Major Leaguer Travis Blackley helped refine his understanding of pitching and ball movement.

Dodge City has become a familiar destination for Australian players, with Queenslander Hayden Dingli currently in the program and existing connections through Baseball Australia pathways.

READ MORE: Stories on Aussies going to college

“It is great to see the connection with Dodge City and Australian players continue over the last 10-15 years and Paddy will be the next part of that,” says Baseball Australia player development manager Andrew Riddell. “They have had the likes of Brayden Schuler, Scott Hillier, Tim Wakefield, myself and currently with Hayden Dingli there which will make the transition for Paddy even easier.”

Ridell adds that he’s been loving Paddy’s progression over the last few seasons.

“We have seen him for multiple years now compete,” he says. “Paddy’ ability to mix speeds on the mound and keep hitters off-balance has always been a big part of his game. As he starts to mature physically, his velocity will continue to improve. He has also shown the ability to put the ball in play a lot at the plate and will be able to continue his offensive development while at Dodge City.”

For McLoughlin, the move is about more than just performance.

“I’m excited to compete at a high level and improve my game,” he said. “As well as living away from home, becoming independent and being part of the school community.”

With a deep pitch mix, international experience and a clear plan for development, McLoughlin now takes the next step, heading to Kansas ready to test himself at the junior college level.

23 March 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Women's Baseball

Roos Roster Revealed for 2026 Australian Women's Championships

The Roos are set to make their Australian Women’s Championships debut, with the inaugural roster now confirmed.

So, who are the Roos? We’ve published a full breakdown, but in short, they are a national composite team made up of emerging players from across Australia who narrowly missed state selection.

The initiative gives those athletes the opportunity to compete at the Australian Women’s Championship, while strengthening the overall level of competition.

The program also creates a clearer pathway, exposing the next tier of talent to high-level national play.

The Roos have featured at the past two Australian Youth Championships, and now transition into the women’s competition.

“Following the success of the ACT Roos at the recent Australian Youth Championships, it’s exciting that we’ve been able to apply similar principles within the Australian Women’s Championship,” said Baseball Australia General Manager of Performance Pathways and Player Development Michael Crooks.

“We believe this initiative will not only lift the quality of the AWC, but over time will further support player development within home states and strengthen the Emeralds program for international competition.”

There is no shortage of talent on the roster.

Bronwyn Gell headlines the group, having represented the Emeralds at five international events. Maddy Patrick also brings international experience, featuring at the 2023 World Cup.

Among the next generation, two-time national champion and 2025 Australian Youth Women’s Championship MVP Reagan O’Rielley steps up to the senior level.

Emma Sullivan, Kendra Rutgers, Ashleigh Young, Reagan O’Rielley, Alyssa Jamieson, Mariam Arifaki, Breearna Zavec, MacKenzie Prentice-Evans and Lily Dal-Corrobo are are all aged 19 or younger and will have the chance to test themselves at the next level.

The roster also features three players from the Northern Territory.

“This is a group full of youthful energy, balanced with experience,” said manager Dave Paddison. “It’s a team of passionate women eager to compete and continue developing on the biggest stage for women’s baseball in Australia.”

The Women’s Championships begin April 12 in Melbourne. You can view the schedule and read about it here.

Tag Cloud:
2026 AWC

19 March 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Community Women's Baseball

Schedule Released: Everything to know about the 2026 AWC and AYWC | Women's Baseball

One of the best weeks in Australian baseball is less than a month away.

The 2026 Australian Women’s Championship (AWC) and Youth Women’s Championship (AYWC) are coming to Melbourne Ballpark from April 12–18.

There’s a lot to play for.

Not only is the AWC is set to feature one of its most talented line-ups in several years, the Women’s World Cup is later this year and this tournament will be crucial in selecting that team.

On top of that, all nine Australian women selected in the Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) in the United States are expected to play.

The AWC is the only open-level state vs state championship in Australian baseball.

The Youth Women’s Championship runs from January 14–18. This Under-16 event offers a chance to see what the next generation looks like while introducing younger players to a national championship environment.

Here is everything you need to know.

SCHEDULE & FORMAT


A PDF of the 2026 Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Schedule is available here.

The Women’s Division features six teams:
– Western Australia
– South Australia
– Victoria
– New South Wales
– Queensland
– The Roos

The Roos are a composite team, made up of the next best available players across the country. It’s designed to expand opportunities for emerging female athletes and strengthening the depth of competition at the premier national women’s event.

Each team will play each other once in a Round Robin format between April 12-15. The top four teams will advance to a double-elimination format Finals. The format is designed to test depth of a state’s talent.

The defending champions are New South Wales.

Download the schedule now!

The Youth Women’s Division features five teams:
– Western Australia
– South Australia
– Victoria
– New South Wales
– Queensland

Between April 14-16, each team will play each other once in a Round Robin Format. The top three teams will advance to Finals.

The Finals Format features another round robin. Records reset. The top three teams will play each other once, with the top two teams advancing to the Gold Medal Game.

South Australia has won the last two championships.

BROADCAST, MEDIA AND COVERAGE


BROADCAST

You can watch many of the games free on Baseball+ – Australian baseball’s broadcast platform, home to nearly 60,000 subscribers. There is an App available but it’s also available on desktop at plus.baseball.com.au.

For those games not on Baseball+, you can watch a single-camera feed on Game Changer.

Commentators include World Cup silver medalist, long time Emerald and WBSC commentator Amy McCann, World Cup bronze medalist and three-time Emerald Amy Cannington, and 3-time ABL Broadcaster of the Year Eric Balnar.

Special guests, further award winning commentators and high profiled players will join the coverage throughout the week.

Amy McCann and Amy Cannington are also hosting a podcast (search Women’s Baseball: The Inside Pitch) profiling each state in the build up.

SCORING

Games will be live scored via GameChanger. The links are below:

– Women’s 
– Youth Women’s

Last year’s data and hub can be found at www.baseball.com.au/women.

PHOTOS AND VIDEO

Erin Honsa from Studio Honsa will be the events official photographer. Baseball Australia will provide access to a photo folder that all players and parents can access to download action photos for free.

Izzy Lilburn from Izzy Grace Studios will join the event over the last four days as the official videographer, capturing exciting moments from finals and to profile women’s baseball.

If you would like to take photographs at the event, you require approval. Please email Eric Balnar (eric.balnar@baseball.com.au) with your Working With Children Check, and your intention with the photos.

COVERAGE

Baseball Australia will be posting frequently on social media via Baseball.com.au. Coverage will include:
– Previews
– Stories
– Highlights
– Reels
– Photos
– Game Recaps
– Tournament Scenarios
– Tournament Updates

PODCAST

Amy McCann and Amy Cannington are running a weekly Podcast on Women’s Baseball – The Inside Pitch. Subscribe to them wherever you get your podcasts to listen to previews, analysis and to hear from key players from each team.

ROSTERS


Below are links to each state’s roster announcements:

Western Australia: AWC Roster | AYWC Roster

South Australia: AWC Roster | AYWC Roster 

Victoria: AWC Roster | AYWC Roster

New South Wales: AWC Roster | AYWC Roster

Queensland: AWC Roster | AYWC Roster

Roos: AWC Roster

 

17 March 2026 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- Aussies Abroad College Baseball

Gold Coast pitcher Tyson Wardrop commits to NJCAA Division I program Chattanooga State

When Tyson Wardrop pulled on a green and gold uniform and toured the United States with the Australian U16 squad in 2024, something clicked.

“After touring that year, I was motivated to get to the next level,” Wardrop said. “We visited some incredible ball fields through Baseball Australia – Auburn and Clemson to name a couple – and faced an exceptional USA 15U team. From then, I knew I wanted to get back over there and take my shot.”

That process led to more than 20 calls with schools across NCAA, NAIA and the JUCO landscape. Now, the Surfers Paradise Baseball Club right-hander, who turns 18 in March, has found his fit: Chattanooga State Community College.

It’s a Tennessee-based Division 1 Junior College program with a proud history of developing players and sending them on to four-year universities.

Wardrop carries what scouts describe as “high projectability.” He has a 6’3” frame that, with additional power and weight, is built to generate considerably more velocity.

But those who have watched him closely are equally impressed by what is already there: a high baseball IQ, advanced command, and a mature understanding of what it means to get hitters out.

“This season has been a lot about command, especially after I was promoted to Division 1 starting pitcher in the Queensland Men’s State League (GBL) for Surfers Paradise,” he said.

In addition to representing Australia at the U16 level, Wardrop has worn the Queensland state colours on multiple occasions, including the U16 side that claimed a silver medal in 2024, and earned back-to-back selection in the Queensland U18 team.

The choice of Chatt State was driven by more than baseball alone.

READ MORE: Stories on Aussies going to college

Wardrop will major in Civil Engineering, and the program’s strong academic pathways were central to his decision – a place at Griffith University was his domestic fallback, underlining that his ambitions extend well beyond the diamond.

“It’s a combination of strong baseball and academic pathways,” he said. “Completing those credentials while over there was really important. My fallback was studying Engineering at Uni here at home, but this is the best of both worlds.”

Chatt State is a proven JUCO program. Under Head Coach Greg Dennis, now in his 23rd season, the Tigers have produced 13 NJCAA All-Americans over the past nine seasons and consistently placed players at four-year programs including Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas Tech and Central Florida.

The calibre of the TCCAA conference is no secret – rivals Walters State were runners-up at the 2025 NJCAA World Series.

Wardrop will work under Pitching and Player Development Coach Mike Spears, who brings professional-level experience and a data-informed approach to pitcher development – including work with Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia.

“Tyson is an intriguing addition to our 2026 class. He has the frame, the baseball IQ and the competitive makeup we look for, and there is plenty of development still ahead of him. I’m keen to work closely with him to maximise those gains and see him play a real role in our pitching staff,” said Spears.

For Wardrop, the move to the United States is also about immersing himself fully in the game and finding out exactly how far his ability can take him.

“We only manage to get one or two games a week here in Australia,” he said. “I’m ready for it to be 24/7. I want to find out what I’m capable of when baseball is the priority every single day.”

Baseball runs deep in the Wardrop family.

Tyson’s father Adam is a long-time ABL player who signed professionally with the then California Angels in the ‘90s, while his uncle Ben Foster is a former Aussie representative, ABL player and ex-General Manager of the ABL.

Right up until Tyson boards the plane, he and Adam will be lining up together for Surfers Paradise on a weekly basis – a father and son sharing the field one last time before the next chapter begins.

“This is what we’ve all been working toward, and Dad understands what it means better than anyone – he’s lived it. My whole family has had my back the whole way and the club has been my home since Little League, so I’ve grown up around some legends here,” says Wardrop. “I have a lot of people to thank for getting me to this point. Now it’s time to go and see what I can do.”

The Club connection runs deeper than most.

Surfers Paradise head coach Kevin Fenn was himself coached by Adam Wardrop during his own playing days at the club, long before Tyson was born.

“To now be coaching Tyson is something pretty special. He’s a competitor who has not scratched the surface of what he is capable of, and Chattanooga State are getting a player who will make this club proud. We cannot wait to follow his journey,” said Fenn.

Wardrop becomes the latest in a long line of Surfers Paradise Baseball Club players to earn college opportunities in the United States, following the club’s Class of 2025, which saw five players head Stateside.

17 March 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- Aussies Abroad Aussies Sign Pro

Jack O'Loughlin signs deal in Korea with the Samsung Lions

Australian national team pitcher Jack O’Loughlin has signed in Korea.

Australia’s most recent Major Leaguer has inked a Temporary Foreign Replacement Player deal with the Samsung Lions in the KBO.

Foreign Replacement Player contracts run for six weeks. It is the same type of deal Coen Wynne and Lachlan Wells signed during the 2026 season.

He replaces import pitcher Matt Manning, who was ruled out for the season after rupturing an elbow ligament. It means if Jack pitches well, he has every shot at making this a permanent deal.

The contract is worth $50,000 USD for the six weeks.

The 26-year-old O’Loughlin is coming off a strong World Baseball Classic campaign. He fired 3.0 shutout innings in a win over Chinese Taipei, then followed with 3.1 innings against Korea, allowing just one unearned run. That adds up to a 0.00 ERA against two of the best baseball nations in the world.

It builds on a solid ABL season. O’Loughlin led the league with 62 strikeouts, posted a 3.91 ERA, and was a finalist for the Pitcher of the Year Award.

The South Autralian’s back half of the season was particularly eye-catching. O’Loughlin allowed just one run across his final 14.0 regular season innings. In Game 1 of the ABL Championship Series, he delivered against the Sydney Blue Sox, allowing just two hits over 7.0 innings while retiring 16 straight batters in a walk-off Game 1 victory.

O’Loughlin made his MLB debut in 2024 with the Athletics. He pitched 9.2 innings and allowed five runs. He spent the 2025 season with the Colorado Rockies.

O’Loughlin joins three other Australians signed to Korea deals. Shortstop Jarryd Dale has a full contract with the KIA Tigers. Lachlan Wells landed with defending champions LG Twins. Alex Hall will play in the Korean Futures league with the Ulsan Whales.

“I heard about Korean professional baseball through foreign players who played in the KBO league,” said O’Loughlin in an interview. “I played in the same team in Australia with left-handed pitcher Lee Seung-hyun. I want to contribute to the victory of Samsung Lions.”

Lee Seung-hyun and O’Loughlin pitched in the 2023-24 season with the Adelaide Giants en route to an ABL title.

Samsung is coming off a strong season in 2025 where they lost in the third round of the KBO playoffs. The Korean season begins March 28.

Jack is a product of Port Adelaide Baseball Club.

16 February 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

A full list of over 100 Australians in the college baseball system in 2026

More Australians are playing baseball in college than ever before.

With college seasons getting underway this month,  we thought it would be helpful to list out where every Aussie is playing.

Disclaimer: assembling a list like this is challenging. If we missed you, we mean no offence by it at all. Simply email Andrew Riddell (Andrew.riddell@baseball.com.au) and he’ll add you to the list and forward on to our media department.

NCAA DIVISION 1


– Billy Baker (QLD, INF) – Georgia Tech (Sophomore)
– Josh Beezley (NSW, RHP) – Arkansas Little Rock (Senior)
– Blake Cavill (NSW, 1B) – Troy (Senior)
–  Chase Diggins (WA, INF) – Nebraska-Omaha (Senior)
– Travis Finney (VIC, INF) – South Dakota St (Junior)
– Henry Hayman (VIC, INF) – Akron (Senior)
– Sam Jackson (NSW, LHP) – New Mexico (Junior)
– Johnny Lemm (QLD, C/1B/RF) – Alabama (Senior)
– Daniel Mills (NSW, RHP) – Columbia (Sophomore)
– Ryan Morrison (VIC, RHP) – Wichita State (Senior)
– Adam Mustow (NSW, C) – Arkansas State (Junior)
– Conor Myles (VIC, LHP) – Texas San Antonio (Senior)
– Jimmy Nati (NSW, UTL) – Stanford (Senior)
– Josh Nati (NSW, UTL) – Oregon State (Freshman)
– Will Page-Allen (ACT, RHP) – Fresno State (Junior)
– Zak Skinner (VIC, C) – Central Florida (Senior)
– Max Stagg (SA, OF) – UC Santa Barbara (Sophomore)
– Jack Waters (QLD, RHP) – Cumberlands (Senior)
– Harry Wilton (NSW, OF) – St. Peters (Freshman)
– Mason Wray (VIC, C) – Northwestern State (Senior)
– James Voorhies (USA, RHP / C) – Cal State Northridge (Freshman)

NCAA DIVISION II


– Jaecob Arnott (QLD, LHP) – UTPB (Junior)
– Tom Chessell (QLD, 1B) – East Central (Sophomore)
– William Edwards (NSW, OF) – University of Sioux Falls (Senior)
– Joel Hogan (QLD, RHP) – East Central (Senior)
– Quinn Johnson (NSW, C) – Oklahoma Baptist (Sophomore)
– Hunter Mitchell (SA, RHP/INF) – Lincoln (Freshman)
– Ed Noy (NSW, RHP) – Lincoln (Freshman)
– Ryan Othen (VIC, RHP) – Newman (Junior)
– Charlie Pierson (VIC, RHP) – Eastern New Mexico (Sophomore)
– Taran Rose (VIC, C) – Quincy (Sophomore)
– Brady Smith (SA, C) – Gannon (Freshman)

NCAA DIVISION III


– Alex Duske (VIC, RHP) – Alfred (Sophomore)
– Adam Jirik (VIC, UTL) – Lebanon Valley (Junior)
– Joshua Light (NSW, RHP/OF) – Crown (Freshman)
– Evan Maury (VIC, 1B) – Lewis and Clark (Junior)
– Sam O’Connor (QLD, LHP) – Thomas College (Freshman)
– Nathan Paes (NSW, OF) – Thomas (Freshman)
– Stephen Pearson, Junior at University of Mount St Vincent
– Patrick Temby (WA, C) – Thomas (Senior)

NAIA


– Josh Ashen (VIC, RHP) – Ottawa (Junior)
– Darcy Barry (SA, INF) – Arkansas-Monticello (Senior)
– Marcus Graham (VIC, C) – Missouri Baptist (Senior)
– Adam Harris (VIC, OF) – Reinhardt (Sophomore)
– Rhys Fairweather (VIC, RHP) – Morningside (Senior)
– Owen Glover (NSW, INF) – Midland (Junior)
– Parker Lovering (QLD, RHP) – Montreat (Freshman)
– Flynn McGahan (WA, RHP) – Concordia University (Sophomore)
– James Napier (NSW, OF) – Wayland Baptist (Junior)
– Bronson Neave (VIC, INF) – LSU-Shreveport (Junior)
– Tyson Noel (WA, LHP) – Science & Arts of Oklahoma (Senior)
– Jaycob Pascuzzi (VIC, C) – Mount Marty (Junior)
– Joel Prpic (VIC, OF) – Mayville State (Junior)
– Mcleod Sell (VIC, INF) – Georgetown (Junior)
– Abe Squire (SA,  P) – St. Xavier (Junior)
– Stuart Tharle (ACT, RHP) – Cumberlands (Senior)
– Travis Webster (NSW, RHP) – Midland (Freshman)

 

JUCO (Junior College)


– Lachlan Amon (VIC, LHP) – Williston State (Freshman)
– Zach Altamura (SA, INF) – New Mexico JC (Freshman)
– Alasdair Ballantyne (NSW, RHP) – McCook (Freshman)
– Blake Barlow (QLD, RHP) – Clarendon (Sophomore)
– Nic Bertucci (VIC, RHP/OF) – Central Arizona (Sophomore)
– Felix Brunner (VIC, LHP) – Arizona Western (Sophomore)
– Jake Calver (QLD, OF) – Central Maine (Sophomore)
– Chaise Chabi (NSW, RHP) – McCook (Sophomore)
– Koby Chesterton (NSW, RHP) – Angelina (Sophomore)
– Conor Clark (NSW, RHP) – National Park (Freshman)
– Will Couzner (SA, RHP) – Iowa Lakes (Freshman)
– Josh Davies (WA, C) – Feather River (Sophomore)
– Mitch Denny (VIC, INF) – Frank Phillips (Freshman)
– Hayden Dingli (QLD, RHP) – Dodge City (Freshman)
– Luke Donaghey (NSW, OF) – Galveston (Freshman)
– Callum Donnelly (NSW, OF) – Indian Hills (Sophomore)
– James Fergusson (NSW, RHP) – Vernon (Freshman)
– Logan Fielder (NSW, OF) – NOC Enid (Sophomore)
– Cal Fingleson (NSW, INF) – Tyler (Freshman)
– Olivier Flokstra (NSW, 1B/OF) – Redlands (Freshman)
– Jackson Frame (NSW, RHP/1B) – Lorain County (Sophomore)
– Caleb Garven (NSW, RHP) – Taft (Sophomore)
– Dawson George (WA, RHP/INF) – Taft (Sophomore)
– Toby Gleeson-Payne (NSW, RHP) – National Park (Sophomore)
– Zac Gorman (VIC, UTL) – Central Maine (Sophomore)
– Riley Hall (WA, RHP) – New Mexico JC (Freshman)
– Oscar Hyde (QLD, LHP) – Tacoma (Sophomore)
– Ty Iddon (QLD, OF) – Tacoma (Sophomore)
– Alex James (VIC, RHP) – San Joaquin Delta (Sophomore)
– Milar Kuhl (VIC, INF) – Ventura (Freshman)
– Ben Karakasis (NSW, RHP) – Galveston (Freshman)
– Cam Landy (WA, INF) – National Park (Sophomore)
– Ryan Langworthy (VIC, RHP) – York County (Freshman)
– Zac Leggett (QLD, RHP) – Clarendon (Freshman)
– Gabe Leitch (QLD, INF) – York County (Freshman)
– Evan Maury (VIC, 1B) – Lewis and Clark College (Freshman)
– Flynn McKee (SA, INF) – Galveston (Freshman)
– Phoenix McFarland (NSW, INF) – National Park (Freshman)
– Max Miotto (NSW, INF/RHP) – Missouri State – West Plains (Freshman)
– Zac Morris (NSW, INF) – National Park (Freshman)
– Jesse Neretlis (WA, C) – Pima (Sophomore)
– Luc Oishi (NSW, INF) – Central Maine (Freshman)
– Zane Overlack (QLD, RHP – Clarendon (Freshman)
– Nic Paparella (SA, INF/OF) – Galveston (Sophomore)
– Bailey Parcel (NSW, INF) – Central Maine (Freshman)
– Nick Parton (VIC, UTL) – NIACC (Sophomore)
– Hayden Purchase (NSW, C) – Antelope Valley (Sophomore)
– Jack Ratcliffe (VIC, INF) – Iowa Central (Freshman)
– Kai Reid (SA, OF) – North Central Texas (Sophomore)
– Raul Romero (QLD, RHP) – McCook (Sophomore)
– Jake Scott (QLD, OF) – Redlands (Freshman)
– Oscar Shellshear (QLD, RHP) – National Park (Freshman)
– Lachlan Smith (VIC, INF) – Frank Phillips (Sophomore)
– Tyler Spiteri (NSW, OF) – Frank Phillips (Sophomore)
– Zach Smith (QLD, INF) – Golden West (Freshman)
– James Squire (VIC, RHP) – Douglas (Sophomore)
– Max Strickland (QLD, RHP) – Yavapai (Freshman)
– Nick Suykens (NSW, RHP) – Cisco (Freshman)
– Mikah Targett (NSW, RHP) – McCook (Freshman)
– Caleb Tunkin (NSW, C) – Edmonds (Freshman)
– Kyan Wallington (NSW, INF) – Galveston (Sophomore)
– Cooper Wilson (NSW, OF) – Miles CC Montana Freshman
– Lachlan West (NSW, C) – Wenatchee Valley (Freshman)
– Tim Yeomans (ACT, C) – New Mexico JC (Freshman)

05 February 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- Aussies Abroad

A list of Australian coaches and performance staff across Major and Minor League Baseball

Spring Training begins shortly in the United States for Major League clubs.

Australia’s impact on professional baseball continues to grow, with a strong group of coaches, performance staff, and analysts currently working throughout Major League Baseball organisation.

From the Major League dugout to the engine rooms of player development, Australians are helping shape the future of the game at every level.

Before we begin, a note. I apologise if I missed anyone. I am trying my best to find as much information as possible. If I have overlooked you, I am so sorry. Please email me so the record can be corrected.

It is also important to recognise that many scouts are employed by MLB organisations to work in Australia. This article is specifically focused on coaches, performance, and analytics staff.

Below is a snapshot of Australians currently contributing across professional baseball:

Major League Baseball

– Will Bradley – Assistant Hitting Coach, Tampa Bay Rays

– Allan De San Miguel – Bullpen Coach, Kansas City Royals

Minor League Coaching Staff

– Chris Adamson – Bench Coach, Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Triple-A, Philadelphia Phillies)

– Rich Thompson – Manager, Arkansas Travellers (Double-A, Seattle Mariners)

– Michael Collins – Manager, Binghamton Rumble Ponies (Double-A, New York Mets)

– Andrew Graham – Rehab Coach, Philadelphia Phillies (Minor Leagues)

– Josh Spence – Pitching Coach, Biloxi Shuckers (Double-A, Milwaukee Brewers)

– Tyler Anderson – Pitching Coach, Lakeland Tigers (Class-A, Detroit Tigers)

– Luisa Gauci – Hitting Coach, Milwaukee Brewers

-Sam Eades – Specialist: Pitching and Performance, Kansas City Royals

– Lisa Norrie – Travelling Minor League Coach, Athletics

Performance, Science, and Support Staff

– Jason Morriss – Minor League Strength & Conditioning Coordinator, Milwaukee Brewers

– MacKenzie Bourke – Clubhouse Manager and Minor League Travel Coordinator, Jersey Shore BlueClaws (High-A, Philadelphia Phillies)

– Campbell Quirk – Performance Analyst, St. Louis Cardinals

– Bill Johnson – Senior Biomechanist, Washington Nationals

– Jonathan Freeston – Director of Science, Cleveland Guardians

– Georgia Giblin – Vice President, Health & Performance, Detroit Tigers

– Tim Buszard – Performance Science, New York Yankees

27 January 2026 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

Resilient Ryder Wilson commits to college in the United States

One of Victoria’s most resilient and accomplished young pitchers is taking the next step in his baseball journey to the United States.

Right-handed pitcher Ryder Wilson has committed to Sussex County Community College in New Jersey, where he will study Exercise Science and continue his development on the mound. Wilson is scheduled to depart for the U.S. in Fall 2026.

Wilson’s pathway has been anything but linear. It’s turned into a defining part of what makes him the player he is.

Wilson is an AYC Gold Medalist and AYC Golden Arm winner.

A product of Melbourne’s deep club baseball system, Wilson currently plays summer baseball with Melbourne Baseball Club and winter baseball with Greenhills-Montmorency Baseball Club, where he has spent the last three seasons refining his craft and establishing himself at the highest domestic level.

He began his junior career with Upwey Ferntree Gully, an environment he credits with shaping his early foundation.

“I was lucky to have Donovan Hendricks guiding my transition from juniors to seniors,” Wilson says. “He backed me early, showed confidence in my ability, and promoted me into the Premier Division 1 senior team at a young age.”

Wilson was part of back-to-back VSBL Division 1 premiership teams at just 15 and 16 years old, gaining exposure to senior baseball well ahead of schedule.

During winter seasons, he developed further at North Balwyn Baseball Club, where he says being surrounded by elite talent helped set his standards.

“Working under Neil Burke was incredibly inspiring,” Wilson says. “Being around ABL and Australian players like Chris Burke, Darryl George, Cam Gibbons, Jon Kennedy, the Dales and the Youngs gave me the chance to watch, learn, and understand what high-level baseball actually looks like.”

Breaking into North Balwyn’s first team was difficult, and as Wilson matured, he made a defining career decision.

“Three years ago, I made the tough call to move to Greenhills-Montmorency,” he says. “They have exceptional talent, strong coaching, and a real development focus. I arrived at the right time and was given meaningful opportunities.”

Those opportunities turned into results.

Wilson earned Second Grade MVP in his second season, then followed it up by winning First Grade MVP the following year.  He pitched a complete game in the semi-final and a shutout in the grand final as part of a Division 1 championship side.

He then became a ‘pitcher only.’

“My Victorian pathway reflected that versatility,” he explains. “I was selected as a catcher for the U16 AYC team, then shifted to outfield and pitching in my first U18 year. When I returned for my final U18 trials, I nominated as a pitcher only.”

Wilson now works with a five pitch mix — a four-seam fastball, sinker, slider, curveball and change-up — and prides himself on attacking hitters.

“I’ve always pitched with the same mindset,” he says. “Go hard, attack hitters, and trust your field.”

His biggest strength, however, is not just physical.

“I’d say my biggest strength is grit and resilience,” Wilson says. “I was never the biggest kid on the diamond, but I refused to be outworked. Development isn’t a sprint. It’s a marathon.”

Wilson has represented Victoria at three Australian Youth Championships, medalling three times – Silver, Bronze and Gold.

“He’s had a great junior career,” says Baseball Australia Player Development Manager Andrew Riddell. “He’s had one of the two better outings we’ve ever seen at a national championship, a Team Australia trip to Florida and an MLB select trip to Florida.”

He’s also represented the Australia Region at a Senior League World Series.

Winning Gold at the 2024 AYC carried special meaning.

“I’d missed out on World Cup selection earlier, and that setback motivated me,” he says. “I came into the tournament with something to prove and ended up being awarded the Golden Arm. I’ve always looked at non-selection as ‘not yet’ rather than ‘no’.”

That momentum continued internationally. Wilson was selected to represent Australia at the Perfect Game World Wood Bat Tournament in Florida, before earning a spot on the MLB World Select Team for the Arizona College Showcase tour.

Those experiences helped shape his college decision.

But, Andrew Riddell praises Wilson’s patience to his college approach.

“He decided to take a year off after high school when he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his future and it allowed him to take a step back and really focus on what is going to help him in college,” says Riddell. “He had a great year in club ball in Melbourne, added velocity and most importantly worked on his secondary pitches so that when he gets to college he will be able to compete at a high level with multiple different pitches in the strike zone.”

Wilson has a strong Australian connection waiting for him at Sussex County. Billy Parsons, a former Canberra Cavalry and Melbourne Aces pitcher who has represented Australia and now competes professionally with the Sussex County Miners, is currently on the college’s pitching staff.

“I was lucky to have Billy as a mentor during my first year on the Melbourne Aces Development Roster,” Wilson says. “His guidance and his connection to Sussex first led me to explore what the college offered both academically and athletically.”

Wilson says he received scholarship interest from several programs before choosing Sussex County.

“In the end, it was about finding the environment that best aligned with my goals on the field and in the classroom.”

At college, his focus is clear.

“I’m looking to develop physically through strength and conditioning and refine my pitching mechanics to see what my ceiling really is,” he says. “College will be crucial over the next two years — not just for development, but for positioning myself for the best opportunities when it’s time to move on to a four-year school.”

Riddell thinks his stuff will compete at college.

“He has always been a tough competitor that wants the ball in the biggest of games and situations and his versatility to be able to start games or come out of the bullpen is really going to help him at Sussex,” says Riddell. “I am looking forward to continue watching him develop and help his team win games just like he has done everywhere he has pitched in Australia.”

Wilson credits his father as the person who first set him on this path.

“My dad introduced me to baseball,” he says. “He never played, but a throwing clinic presentation by Jon Deeble made a huge impression on him. He suggested I try baseball in winter, and I loved it straight away.”

In a full-circle moment, the first professional development roster Wilson ever joined was with the Melbourne Aces — signed by Jon Deeble himself.

“That’s where my baseball journey really began,” Wilson says.

Now, with a clear identity on the mound, a proven competitive résumé, and a college commitment secured, Wilson is ready for the next challenge.

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