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21 April 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- ABL Abroad

Team Australia & Sydney Blue Sox pitcher Coen Wynne signs contract with Korea's LG Twins

Team Australia and Sydney Blue Sox pitcher Coen Wynne has signed a contract with the LG Twins in the Korean Baseball Organisation (KBO) – South Korea’s top league and a power three professional baseball competition in the world.

He was signed to a Temporary Foreign Replacement Player contract to step in for wounded import Elieser Hernandez

The Twins kept tabs on Wynne at international events during the last ABL season. They invited him to Spring Training in February over in Arizona.

“Spring training was intense and saw me throwing bullpens, participating in team defence, throwing live at bats against hitters and I finished off with me throwing a few innings in a scrimmage game,” said Wynne. “The feeling I got from the head of scouting department and coaches were that they were impressed with my performance during spring and wanted to keep in touch throughout the season.”

Sydney-born Wynne, 26, has been one of the feel of the Australian baseball world over the last two years.

He returned Down Under from a standout career at Grand Canyon University in NCAA Division I and has progressively taken a leap each of his three ABL seasons.

In 2022-23, he started ten games and was one of the best rookies. He earned an emergency call-up to Australia at the World Baseball Classic and famously pitched the national team to a win over China just a day after landing in Japan.

In 2023-24, he was once again relied on as a key Blue Sox starter and earned a spot with Team Australia at the Premier12.

But 2024-25 was when he really took off. He was used as both a starter and a reliever, compiling a 2.35 ERA in 38.1 innings with a WHIP of .934. He was nominated for the Pitcher of the Year and helped the Sox win the minor premiership.

He famously threw a near-perfect outing just hours after returning from his Nan’s funeral in December.

That’s when the LG Twins took note, inviting him to Spring Training in Arizona in February 2025.

“The Blue Sox have been a large part of my development for the last three seasons,” said Wynne. “It’s given me a chance to sharpen my skills as both a starter and a reliever.”

Wynne flies out to Korea later this week to join the team.

It’s a prospect the Twins are excited about.

“Coen Wynn is a starting resource from the Australian national team, and he has maintained his sense of competition by digesting actual games until recently, and he judged him to be the right person to replace Hernandez considering his training with the team for the purpose of actual test for the Asian quarter during the Arizona Spring Camp,” said a Twins official. 

We will be watching eagerly.

08 April 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL 25-26 Season

Darren MacBeth to Depart Sydney Blue Sox Ownership Group

After two impactful seasons leading the Sydney Blue Sox in the Australian Baseball League—including a return to the playoffs in 2024–25 — Darren MacBeth will be stepping down from his ownership role.

MacBeth, the founder of Five Star Distribution, worked closely with General Manager Stuart Masters to reinvigorate the Blue Sox brand. Together, they increased attendance, strengthened the club’s local presence, and ended a prolonged playoff drought.

A respected figure in the Australian baseball community, MacBeth’s deep-rooted love for the sport traces back to his playing days with the Canterbury Vikings and Sydney Zephyrs.

“Unfortunately, due to changes in our personal circumstances, my wife and I have made the difficult decision to step away from the ownership of the Blue Sox. We simply can’t dedicate the time and resources needed to keep things progressing the way they deserve,” conveys Darren MacBeth.

“We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past two years. It’s been a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated coaching staff, committed players who gave everything they had, and our fantastic team—Stu, Kyra, and the amazing volunteers who made coming to the ballpark such a joy.”

“We’ll miss it all, and we truly hope the Blue Sox continue to thrive and build on the momentum that’s been created.”

Baseball Australia and the Australian Baseball League thank Darren for his commitment and contribution.

“It will be disappointing to see Darren and Stuart leave the Bue Sox, however their impact will be long lasting. The improvement both on and off the field has been remarkable and the team is well placed for future success,” states Baseball Australia CEO Glenn Williams.

As the Blue Sox enter a new chapter, the ABL will continue to work with potential investment partners to ensure the club competes in the 2025–26 season and beyond.

26 March 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL Abroad

A list of ABL players on MLB Opening Day Rosters

by Eric Balnar, photo: Christopher O’Meara, Associated Press

Major League Baseball season is here!

On Thursday 27 March (US Time), all 30 MLB teams begin their quest for a World Series title. The action begins early Friday morning in Australia.

There are plenty of links to the Australian Baseball League. 17 players, including two Australians, have cracked Opening Day rosters.
Overall, there have been 74 players who have progressed to the Major Leagues after playing in Australia since the league reformed in 2010. If you include the original ABL, this number is closer to 170.

Here’s who they are and who is on the cusp of a major league call-up.

Read more: Two Australians, Curtis Mead & Liam Hendriks, crack Major League Baseball Opening Day Line Ups

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

Baltimore Orioles

– Andrew Kittredge x Adelaide Giants

Boston Red Sox

– Liam Hendriks x Perth Heat

Tampa Bay Rays

– Curtis Mead x Adelaide Giants
– Junior Caminero x Perth Heat

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

Cleveland Guardians

– Gabriel Arias x Canberra Cavalry

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

Los Angeles Angels

– Logan O’Hoppe x Adelaide Giants
– Yusei Kikuchi x Melbourne Aces

Seattle Mariners

Taylor Saucedo x Canberra Cavalry

NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST

Atlanta Braves

– Ronald Acuna Jr x Melbourne Aces (starting on IL)

Miami Marlins

– Lake Bachar x Canberra Cavalry

Philadelphia Phillies

– Cristopher Sanchez x Perth Heat

NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL

Chicago Cubs

– Shota Imanaga x Canberra Cavalry
– Jon Berti x Canberra Cavalry

Cincinnati Reds

– Jake Fraley x Perth Heat

Milwaukee Brewers

– Rhys Hoskins x Sydney Blue Sox
– Jared Koenig x Auckland Tuatara

Pittsburgh Pirates

– Ji-Hwan Bae x Geelong Korea

ON THE CUSP / TRIPLE A

– Athletics: Jacob Lopez x Perth Heat
– Atlanta Braves: Luke Williams x Adelaide Giants
– Colorado Rockies: Jack O’Loughlin x Adelaide Giants
– Detroit Tigers: Bligh Madris x Brisbane Bandits
– LA Angels: Chuckie Robinson x Canberra Cavalry
– Tampa Bay Rays: Jake Westbrook x Sydney Blue Sox
– San Diego Padres: Cole Roederer x Canberra Cavalry and Mike Brosseau x Perth Heat

 

01 February 2025 By Stuart Masters

By Stuart Masters

Season Update

2024/25 Sydney Blue Sox Season Wrap

That’s a wrap for the Sydney Blue Sox in the ABL 2024/25 season. While the ending may not have been what we all envisioned, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey, the many milestones achieved, and the solid foundation that’s been built for the future.

Volunteers – The Unsung Heroes Heartfelt thanks go out to the incredible volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to the Sydney Blue Sox. Your passion and commitment are the backbone of our organization and have a profound impact on every aspect of our game day experience. Whether assisting with ticketing, merchandise, fan engagement, or ensuring smooth operations behind the scenes, your hard work does not go unnoticed.

This past season was filled with memorable moments, and much of that success is due to your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Volunteers like you create an inviting and energetic atmosphere that makes fans feel welcome and players proud to step onto the field. Your dedication exemplifies the spirit of community and teamwork that defines the Sydney Blue Sox.

We are truly grateful for your time, efforts, and positive attitude. Your contribution goes beyond the immediate tasks; it helps foster a love for baseball in the community and supports the growth of the sport. Each of you plays a vital role in shaping the Blue Sox experience and making it one that fans cherish and remember. Thank you for being an essential part of the Blue Sox family. We appreciate everything you do and look forward to working alongside you again for another exciting season.

Fans Huge thanks to our incredible fans for your unwavering support throughout the 2024/25 ABL season. From thrilling victories to hard-fought battles, your passion and energy fueled our team every step of the way.

This season has been filled with unforgettable moments, from standout performances by our talented roster to the electric atmosphere you created at Blacktown International Sportspark. We are proud to represent a community that stands by us, rain or shine, win or lose.

To our season members, game-day attendees, and those who cheered from afar — we thank you. Your dedication drives us to strive for greatness and build a stronger team year after year.

As we look forward to the next season, we remain committed to delivering exciting baseball, fostering talent, and continuing to strengthen the connection with our loyal fanbase. Thank you for making this season one to remember. We can’t wait to see you back at the ballpark soon! Go Blue Sox!

Funkie Phil – Our Ultimate Entertainer Shoutout to the ultimate Sydney Blue Sox hype man, Funkie Phil! The energy, passion, and vibe you bring to every game are unmatched. Whether it’s pumping up the crowd, keeping the stadium buzzing, or supporting the team through thick and thin, you’re a true legend. Your love for baseball by involving junior players in pre-game activities and creating unforgettable memories for young athletes is truly special.

Your infectious energy, booming voice, and unmatched passion have kept our fans on their feet and created an electric atmosphere at every game. From rallying the crowd to pumping up the players, you are the heartbeat of the ballpark, and we couldn’t imagine game days without you. Thank you for being an unforgettable part of the Blue Sox family!

Visiting Teams Shoutout to the visiting teams for their support and respect throughout the season. Your dedication and sportsmanship have made our games unforgettable, and we are truly honoured to host you at our home. We value the camaraderie and competition that make each matchup special, and we look forward to future encounters. Thank you for being a vital part of our baseball community and helping make this season one to remember!

ABL & Officials Thank you to the Australian Baseball League for another successful season on the field. Your professionalism in coordinating all 120 regular season games, coupled with your continuous efforts to promote the game across media platforms, has been exceptional. Your commitment to developing international relationships and expanding the league’s global presence is truly commendable. We look forward to continuing to work together and further elevate the ABL’s growth and impact worldwide.

Thank you to the ABL umpires for their dedication and hard work. Their role is demanding and often thankless, yet they ensure the game runs smoothly and fairly. We recognize the countless hours and tough decisions they face on the field. Their professionalism and commitment are invaluable to the sport, and we truly appreciate everything they do for the ABL and baseball as a whole. Your efforts do not go unnoticed!

Mick Goddard A huge thank you to our incredible Sydney Blue Sox photographer, Mick Goddard, for his dedication and remarkable talent behind the lens. Mick has a unique ability to capture the heart and soul of baseball — from dynamic action shots that freeze split-second moments to candid photos that highlight the passion and emotion of the game.

Each photograph tells a story, creating lasting memories not just for the players and coaches but also for families watching from afar and fans who can’t make it to the ballpark. Mick’s work brings the game closer to everyone, connecting our community through powerful imagery.

We invite you to enjoy a special selection of Mick’s and our favourite shots on our social pages, each meaningful in its own way. Whether it’s a triumphant play, a heartfelt moment, or a snapshot of camaraderie, these photos capture the essence of the Sydney Blue Sox.

Thank you, Mick, for your artistry and for sharing these cherished moments with us.

Season Highlights This season was filled with memorable achievements that showcased the dedication, talent, and hard work of our players, coaching staff, and everyone involved:

  • Minor Premiership – our first in 14 years.
  • Home Postseason for the ABLSF – our first in a decade.
  • 24 wins – more than the combined total wins of the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.
  • 1st in the league for Team ERA.
  • 1st in the league for Runs Scored.
  • 2nd in the league for Hits and Team Batting Stats.
  • 1st in the league for Stolen Bases.

Individual and Team Recognition

  • Manager of the Year – Brooke Knight.
  • Rookie of the Year – Jaylin Rae.
  • Pitching Champion & Helms Award Winner (League MVP) – Alexander Wells.
  • Finalists: Jo Stevens (Rookie of the Year), Coen Wynne (Relief Pitcher of the Year), Ben Ferrer (Pitching Champion).
  • Nominations: Playing Surface of the Year, Broadcaster of the Year.

Notable Moments Here are just a few standout moments from this remarkable season:

  • 27-out combined shutout by Coen Wynne and Kyle Glogoski.
  • Jake Mackenzie’s relentless presence on the basepaths, a nightmare for opposing teams.
  • Jo Stevens dazzling defensively with a highlight reel of plays.
  • Lachlan Bojarski collecting his first professional hit in his first at-bat.
  • Josh Guyer reaching his 250th career strikeout milestone.
  • Team Australia Squad Selection vs Hanwha Eagles in Melbourne: Jo Stevens, Jaylin Rae, Liam Doolan, Alexander Wells & Coen Wynne.

Gratitude to Our Team & Coaching Staff Congratulations to the incredible players and coaching staff of the Sydney Blue Sox for the season that was.

To our players, your dedication, hard work, and passion on the field have been truly inspiring. From thrilling plays and powerful at-bats to stellar pitching and unforgettable moments, your efforts have made this season one to remember. Your commitment to excellence has showcased the true spirit of the Blue Sox and has brought immense pride to our organization and fans alike.

To our coaching staff, your leadership, strategy, and guidance have been the backbone of the team’s success. Your tireless efforts behind the scenes have shaped our players into the champion team they are today. You brought this team together and made them play with the unity and cohesion of a group that has been together for years—a truly remarkable achievement.

We are immensely proud of what you have achieved this season and are excited for what the future holds for the Sydney Blue Sox. Here’s to building on this season’s momentum and achieving even greater success together in seasons to come!

Ownership Group Thank you to the Sydney Blue Sox ownership group, led by principal owner Darren Macbeth and Robert Hazan, for your continued dedication and support of this incredible organization. Your leadership and investment have been instrumental in creating an environment where players thrive, and fans experience unforgettable baseball moments.

We look forward to the future and continuing to build upon the achievements of this season.

Thank you all for being a part of the Sydney Blue Sox journey. Keep an eye on early release 25/26 Season Members tickets and see you next season — Go Blue Sox!

26 January 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- ABL 24/25

Here are your 2024-25 Australian Baseball League Award Winners

The finalists for ten major Australian Baseball League awards have been revealed. The first six were announced during broadcasts of Game 1 of the Semi Final Series.

Winners of the awards will be announced during Games 1 & 2 of both ABL Semi Finals Series match-ups this weekend on Baseball+.

Award winners were voted on by three members from each ABL club, plus a combination of ABL officials, staff and media members.

BROADCASTER OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney

Awarded to the team of broadcasters in one ABL market.

Winner: Adelaide Giants

The Adelaide Giants were voted in as the best broadcast in the Australian Baseball League for season 2024-25.

The Giants were the most streamed team on Baseball+ and the only club to broadcast games in multiple languages.

The broadcast is led on the microphone by Eric Balnar and Phil Herden. Analyst Craig Watts is a regular colour man on the call. They were joined by a variety of guests over the season including former players Ben Lodge & Paul Mildren.

Under the guidance of Spacequake Sports owner David Muggleton, Brandon Woolhouse steered a great ship in Adelaide.

The crew is Brandon aka Producer Brandmon Wool-house (producer, director, switcher), Sam Birchbmore (graphics) & regular camera operators Simon Germinario, Murray Rehleng, Carl Swart, Mitchell Sayce, Amel Skalonja & Tom.

Spacequake would like to thank the University of South Australia for their support in the program.

PLAYING SURFACE OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney

Awarded to the best field in the ABL

Winner: Brisbane Bandits

The Brisbane Bandits have been voted as the best playing surface in the Australian Baseball League for a third straight season.

A great playing surface doesn’t happen by accident, nor does it happen overnight.

The foundations for the field at Viticon Stadium have been laid by the O’Brien family. In particular, the father/son duo of Alec & Glenn spent the better part of three years getting the field to the standard it is today. The O’Briens set a standard for Australian Baseball League teams when it comes to a playing surface.

The Windsor Royals Committee took over the field this year. A group of hardworking volunteers have helped unsure the playing surface standard has been upheld.

MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Chris Adamson (ADL), Shayne Watson (BNE), Jim Bennett (CBR), Jon Deeble (MEL), Andy Kyle (PER), Brooke Knight (SYD)

Awarded to the best field in the ABL

Winner: Brooke Knight

Brooke Knight helped lead a remarkable turnaround of the Sydney Blue Sox in his first season at the helm.

In two seasons from 2022 to 2024, the Blue Sox won just 23 games. In 2024-25, Sydney won 24 games and claimed their first minor premiership in 14 years.

Sydney played an aggressive game on the base paths, relying on a team-based approach to cause chaos and generate runs. They were backed up by the best pitching staff in the ABL.

UMPIRE OF THE YEAR

Finalists:  Paul Latta, Ben Nash, Tom West

Awarded to the top umpire of the season.

Winner: Paul Latta

Paul’s leadership – both on and off the field -is truly inspiring and this award is evidence of recognition of his on field work. 

Paul has consistently been viewed as one of Australia’s best umpires, and this is evidenced by appointments in the ABLCS for the last six years. 

He is further rewarded for his work this coming March, again travelling to Osaka to umpire Team Japan and Team Netherlands in the 2025 Samurai Series alongside his good friend Tom West. 

Congratulations Paul, all the best for the ABLSF and upcoming trip to OSaka.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Max Durrington (BNE), Jaylin Rae (SYD), Jo Stevens (SYD)

Any non-imports, with no prior Major League Baseball experience, who had accumulated less than 130 at bats or 50 innings pitched in their ABL career, and had not played more than two seasons, at the beginning of the 2024-25 season.

Winner: Jaylin Rae

In his first year back from college, Jaylin Rae was a spark plug for the Sydney offense.

The 23-year-old hit .292 with 14RBI in 35 games.

He stole eight bases and made numerous highlight reel efforts at second.

A versatile athlete who can play multiple roles on a team.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Jarryd Dale (MEL), Jason Matthews (CBR), Robbie Perkins (CBR)

Awarded to the top defensive player in the 2024-25 regular season

Winner: Jason Matthews

Canberra’s second baseman was as good as they come in the field.

He made just one error all season across his 259.0 defensive innings at second base to lead all players in the ABL.

He was also involved in 24 double plays.

It was a common occurrence to open your phone and see a web gem from Matthews.

RELIEF PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Tyler Beardsley (PER), Jon Kennedy (CBR), Coen Wynne (SYD)

Awarded to the best relief pitcher in the 2024-25 season

Winner:  Tyler Beardsley 

For four seasons, from 2019-2024, Tyler Beardsley was one of the best starting pitchers in the Australian Baseball League.

He even won the 2021 ABLCS MVP as a starting pitcher.

Beardsley made the move to the bullpen this season as the Perth Heat closer.

He thrived.

He pieced together a season where he had a 1.47 ERA, a BAA of .190 and ended as the leader in saves with 10.

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Finalists: Ben Ferrer (SYD), Jack Mahoney (CBR), Alexander Wells (SYD)

Awarded to the best pitcher in the 2024-25 season

Winner: Alex Wells 

What a return to baseball, for Alexander Wells.

One of Australia’s 38-ever Major Leaguers took some time away from the game, but the 28-year-old dominated the league.

The Blue Sox left-hander led all arms with a 1.55 ERA.

In 10 starts, Wells tossed 58.0 innings with a 1.55 ERA, with 57 strikeouts and 11 walks allowed.

HITTING CHAMPION

Finalists: Jarryd Dale (MEL), Robbie Perkins (CBR), Aaron Whitefield (MEL)

Awarded to the best hitter, voted by the ABL, in the 2024-25 season

Winner: Aaron Whitefield 

Superstar lead-off man Aaron Whitefield is as well rounded hitter there is in the ABL.

He led the league in hits (49) and finished second in average (.348).

Whitefield also chipped in five homers and 15 RBI from the lead-off spot. He ranked third in the ABL in OPS with a mark of .915.

Whitefield scored ten more runs (37) than the next closest opponent.

He used his legs to steal eight stolen bases, good for eighth in the league.

HELMS AWARD

Finalists: Jarryd Dale (MEL), Robbie Perkins (CBR), Alexander Wells (SYD)

Awarded to the Most Valuable Player in the 2024-25 regular season

Winner: Alex Wells


His pitching stat line speaks for itself. His 1.55 ERA across 10 starts and 58.0 innings is one of the big reasons he was named the Pitching Champion earlier.

What makes Wells so valuable is when he started the games.

He was often used as the Game 3 starter. When Wells stepped on the mound, the Blue Sox either were up 2-0 and he helped put the series to bed. Or, the series was split and Wells helped put Sydney in front. 

On two occasions, the Sox started a series 0-2 but a dominant effort from Wells put Sydney back in the fight.

The Blue Sox won eight games he started and claimed the best record in the ABL – remarkable considering they are coming off two back-to-back last place finishes.

Wells is a big reason the Blue Sox were the only team to not drop a series.

 

25 January 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL 24/25 2025 ABL Playoffs

2025 ABL Semi Finals Series – Game 2 | Recaps & Highlights from both series

The Perth Heat and Canberra Cavalry enter today with 1-0 series leads and on the cusp of an ABL Championship Series appearance.

Perth Heat Secure Championship Series Spot with 5-3 Victory Over Adelaide Giants

The Perth Heat booked their place in the Championship Series with a hard-fought 5-3 win over the Adelaide Giants, ending Adelaide’s quest for a third consecutive title. The victory propels Perth to their 10th Championship appearance since 2010, showcasing their dominance in Australian baseball.

Adelaide, needing a win to keep their championship hopes alive, turned to James Bradwell on the mound. However, Bradwell’s outing was brief, lasting just three innings as Perth’s offense came alive early. He allowed four hits, two runs, two errors, three walks, and struck out two.

The Heat opened the scoring in the top of the third inning. Jhon Diaz crossed home plate on Ulrich Bojarski’s sharp single to shortstop Liam Spence. Moments later, Alex Hall scored on an Angel Mateo groundout to first baseman Rixon Wingrove, giving Perth a 2-0 lead.

Perth added to their tally in the fifth inning when Alex Hall smashed a solo home run to right field, extending the lead to 3-0. Hall’s stellar performance at the plate underscored his importance to the team. He would finish the game going 4 from 5, 2 runs, 1 RBI and 1 HR.

Jong-Hae Won took the mound for Perth, delivering an impressive 5.2 innings of work. He allowed two hits and three runs while committing two errors, walking three, and striking out two. His dominance was finally broken in the bottom of the sixth inning when Adelaide roared back to life. Niko Hulsizer delivered a clutch single, driving in Nick Ward, Jared Carr, and Rixon Wingrove to tie the game at 3-3. The crowd erupted, fueling the Giants’ momentum.

However, Perth responded emphatically in the top of the seventh. Jhon Diaz launched a two-run homer to right field, scoring Enderson Delgado and silencing the raucous Adelaide crowd. The Heat’s bullpen held firm, with Warwick Saupold delivering a nerve-wracking but ultimately decisive performance in the ninth inning. Saupold allowed two baserunners, bringing the winning run to the plate, but struck out Nikau Pouaka-Grego to seal the victory.

The loss ends Adelaide’s season and their hopes of a historic three-peat. For Perth, the win symbolizes their resilience and determination to reclaim championship glory. As they advance to the Championship series, the Heat’s blend of power hitting and solid pitching makes them a formidable contender for the title.

BOX SCORE

 

Canberra Cavalry Clinch Championship Series Spot with 5-1 Victory Over Sydney Blue Sox

The Canberra Cavalry punched their ticket to the Championship Series with a commanding 5-1 win over the Sydney Blue Sox. The victory marks Canberra’s fourth trip to the Championship Series, dashing Sydney’s hopes of making their first modern ABL final.

Alex Wells, the 2024/25 Helms Award champion, took the mound for Sydney, but his performance fell far short of expectations. Wells struggled through four innings, allowing eight hits, four runs, four errors, one walk.

The scoring began in the top of the second inning when Matt Halbach singled to left field, bringing home Miles Simington and putting Canberra on the board. Sydney quickly responded in the bottom half of the inning as Solomon Maguire delivered a booming triple to right field, driving in Harry Fullerton and tying the game at 1-1.

Canberra took control in the top of the third. Armond Upshaw crushed a two-run homer to center field, scoring Cameron Tilly and giving the Cavalry a 3-1 lead. The visitors extended their advantage in the fourth when Tilly’s sacrifice fly brought Simington home. Another sacrifice fly, this time from Miguel Palma in the fifth, scored Ray Zuberer and pushed Canberra’s lead to 5-1.

Colten Davis was a force on the mound for Canberra, keeping Sydney’s hitters off balance through six solid innings. He allowed just five hits, one run, and one error, while striking out five and walking three. Davis’s dominance, combined with strong defensive play, stifled Sydney’s attempts to rally.

The final three innings saw both teams locked in a stalemate, with neither side managing to score. Despite Sydney’s best efforts, they couldn’t crack Canberra’s bullpen, which was anchored by a stellar performance from closer Jon Kennedy. Kennedy shut down Sydney’s last-ditch efforts, striking out the side in the ninth inning to seal the win.

For Sydney, the loss ends their dreams of a historic first Championship Series appearance. For Canberra, the victory underscores their status as a perennial contender. With momentum on their side, the Cavalry now set their sights on adding another title to their storied history.

BOX SCORE

24 January 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL 24/25 2025 ABL Playoffs

2025 ABL Semi Finals Series - Game 1 | Recaps & Highlights from both series

Our two favourite words: “Playoff Baseball.”

It’s Friday 24 January in Australia. It’s time for Game 1 of the best-of-three Australian Baseball League semi-final series.

19 January 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL 24/25

2024-25 ABL Playoffs - Canberra Cavalry win Claxton Shield | Media, Match Ups, Previews & Links

Congratulations to our 2024-25 ABL Champion – the Canberra Cavalry.

They won all four of their playoff games, sweeping their way to a Claxton Shield.

Here’s how the playoffs unfolded.

You can watch all game replays and mini-matches on Baseball+: plus.baseball.com.au or via the App Store on your phone.

Scroll down for news stories from around the ABL.

SCHEDULE

ABLCS – Canberra Cavalry vs Perth Heat 

Game 1, Friday 31 Jan – Canberra 10 def Perth 8 – Recap
Game 2, Saturday 1 Feb – Canberra 5 def Perth 0  – Recap

Canberra wins best-of-three series 2-0. Colten Davis (RHP) was named the 2025 ABLCS MVP.

SEMI FINAL SERIES 

Rosters: Download here. 

Friday 24 January – Game 1 – DAILY RECAPS / HIGHLIGHTS 

7:00PM ACDT – Perth Heat 2 def Adelaide Giants 1
7:30PM AEDT – Canberra Cavalry 3 def Sydney Blue Sox 1

Saturday 25 January – Game 2 – RECAP

7:00PM ACDT – Perth Heat 5 def Adelaide Giants 3
7:30PM AEDT – Canberra 5 def Sydney 2

Perth wins best-of-three series 2-0, advances to ABLCS

Canberra wins best-of-three series 2-0, advances to ABLCS.

USEFUL PREVIEWS & NEWS STORIES

Want to gear up for the game?

Here are some great links to get you started.

ABL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

PREVIEW – Canberra Cavalry: The unlikely journey to the ABLCS

PREVIEW – Perth Heat: “Just Find A Way” | The resilient story of the Perth Heat ahead of the 2025 ABL Championship Series

PODCAST – Bloop & A Blast: Luke Hughes & Jeremy Sexton preview the ABLCS with player interviews

AUTHORY / PREVIEW – Heat excited by reward of home final

WBSC – Canberra Cavalry and Perth Heat to compete in Australian Baseball League final series

The West Australian – Australian Baseball League: Perth Heat to host all three Championship Series games after beating Adelaide

Canberra Times – Canberra close in on fairytale, but they must defy the odds like nobody else

RiotACT – There is a sense of history repeating itself as the Canberra Cavalry prepares to play Perth in the Australian Baseball Championship

Authory – Heat win in Adelaide to advance to third straight ABLCS

Baseball’s Best Mate (Podcast ) – Dan Vaughan and Paul Morgan wrap up ABL Semi Finals 

theABL.com.au – Ten MLB Prospects Who Improved Their Stocks in Australia

theABL.com.au – Australian Baseball League announces 2024-25 Team of the Year

ABL SEMI FINAL SERIES

– The West Australian: Perth fire up for post-season run with Adelaide Giants. 

– Preview: Adelaide Giants ready to take on Perth Heat: Features a story on Nick Ward and a whole whack of stats and information about the Perth vs Adelaide match up. Read it here. 

– Walk and Talk: Chris Coleman and Cavs manager Jim Bennett talk ABL Playoffs

– Bloop & A Blast Podcast, featuring interviews with all ABL managers

Luke Hughes & Jeremy Sexton chat to each ABL Playoff manager ahead of their series.

– RiotACT: After surviving dramatic final day, Cavalry ready for playoffs

– Hooked on Sport Podcast, with Ben Hook: ABL Finals Preview featuring Eric Balnar

– Adelaide Advertiser: It’s ring season for Giants infielder Nick Ward

– FiveAA Interview with Todd Van Steensel: Thursday 23 January

– Baseball’s Best Mate: Dan Vaughan and Paul Morgan recap and preview this week’s match ups. Head to their Buzzsprout channel to grab all the links.
– WBSC: Record breaking Australian Baseball League heads into finals

– ABL AWARDS: ABL Announce Awards Finalists

– Dale to Japan: Aces infielder Jarryd Dale earns Spring Training invite to NPB club in Japan

 

19 January 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

- ABL 24/25 - Game Recaps

Final ABL Day Scores & Recaps | ABL season goes down to the final pitch in wild final day

The final day of the 2024-25 Australian Baseball League season might go down as one of the craziest of all time.

This recap represents exactly how it happened.

At the start of Sunday 19 January, Sydney had locked in first spot & Adelaide second.

The last two playoff spots were anyone’s game. Four teams in the mix with one day to go.

Here you will find recaps as the day happens, so we can re-live this exciting finish in years to come.

If you want up-to-date video highlights you simply must follow us on X @ABL.

Here is the original scenarios article here. 

18 January 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- ABL 24/25

"Chaos Saturday" - 18 January Recaps & Scores | The last Saturday of the season begins with web of playoff races

It’s the Saturday of the regular season.  It’s all to play for. Every team is mathematically alive. Only two teams have clinched.

Grab you tie breaking procedures, clinching scenarios & head-to-head records here:  Click here for scenarios

STANDINGS – as of 10:40PM AEDT

*clinched playoffs
^clinched home final

1. Sydney Blue Sox 23-15*^
2. Adelaide Giants 22-17*^
3. Perth Heat 19-19
4. Melbourne Aces 18-21
—
5. Canberra Cavalry 17-21
6. Brisbane Bandits 16-22

The top two teams will host a best-of-three semi final series from January 24-26. Winners advance to Championship Series.

Click here tiebreakers and for scenarios

TODAY’S SCHEDULE

Saturday 18 January 

Perth 3 def Sydney 2 (extra innings)
Brisbane 7 def Canberra 6

Sydney 12 def Perth 2
Adelaide 9 def Melbourne 0
Canberra @ Brisbane, – GAME SUSPSENDED

GAME RECAPS

BANDITS WALK OFF CAVS TO KEEP PLAYOFF HOPES ALIVE

It took a four run comeback and an 18-hour rain delay, but the Brisbane Bandits have walked-off the Canberra Cavalry to win 7-6 and keep their playoff hopes alive.

Dermot Fritsch had a two-out bases loaded single to send the Bandits to the win column.

The decisive base knock came a few minutes after the game was resumed after it was suspended last night.

The batter before, the Cavalry brought a fifth infielder into the game, played a mega-shift and put two outs on the board.

Earlier in the inning, Cavs manager Jim Bennett was ejected after disagreeing with the umpire’s strike zone.

The win caps off a game played in exceptional circumstance. It was resumed from Friday night.

On Friday, the Bandits were trailing 6-2 in the seventh inning before two, two-run homers (all with two outs) tied the game.

At the end of the eighth inning, the game was suspended due to curfew. You can read yesterday’s game recap here.

Brisbane need to win the remainder of their games and get a little bit of help to make the post season. Click here tiebreakers and for scenarios.

BOX SCORE

COLMANEREZ EXTRA INNINGS HOMER PUTS PERTH ON VERGE OF PLAYOFFS


BOX SCORE

In a second extra inning, Tampa Bay Rays prospect Carlos Colmanerez had a solo shot that would prove to be the eventual game winner in a 3-2 Perth Heat victory.

The win moves the Heat to within one way of booking a spot in the 2025 post-season. Sydney remain one win away from clinching their first minor premiership since 2011.

Sydney struck first in the second inning with an RBI single to Solo Maguire.

Perth responded in the fourth with an RBI single from Angel Mateo.

Later, Mateo broke a 1-1 tie in the sixth inning with a sacrifice fly for his second RBI of the day.

Maguire responded with another RBI base hit in the bottom of the sixth to force extras.

Colmanerez broke the deadlock in the second tiebreaker inning with his long ball.

Jong-Hae Won was solid in his start for the Heat, tossing 5.2 innings giving up two earned runs and five hits. Warwick Saupold earned the win with 3.1 innings, allowing three hits and no runs.

Ben Ferrer opened for Sydney, throwing 6.0 innings with five hits and two earned runs. Coen Wynne takes the loss.

Maguire, Brendan Ryan and Jo Stevens each had two hits for the Blue Sox.

GAME SUSPENDED IN BRISBANE

Game Suspended in Brisbane. 
 

Game 3 will resume Sunday morning at 10:00AM AEST from the third inning with Canberra leading 2-0.

Canberra scored both those runs (a sac fly and Miguel Palma RBI single) in the second inning.

 
Game 4 will remain at 1:00PM AEST but become a four game series.
 
Both these games have MASSIVE playoff implications.
 

Adelaide Giants secure a home final with a decisive 9-0 decimation over Aces

While Todd Van Steensel’s quest to take sole possession of the ABL’s All-Time Saves record is postponed yet another day, the Adelaide Giants will be celebrating this victory as they have pencilled in a chance to defend the beach once more.

To call Matt Osterberg’s outing on the mound exceptional would be a severe understatement. The 2021 MLB Draftee for the Philadelphia Phillies pitched 7.0 shutout innings, allowing just 2 hits, 3 walks, while striking out 5 in 101 pitches.

While he did look a bit shaky in the first inning, loading up the bases with just a single out, he was able to get out of it by forcing a grounded into double play on a 1-0 count to get out of the jam.

After he gave up a leadoff walk in the second, Osterberg decided to just no longer allow baserunners, retiring 15 consecutive batters until he gave up a full-count walk in the bottom of the seventh, to which he responded with back-to-back swinging strikeouts to end the inning.

During that streak, only a single batter was able to get to a 3-ball count.

Offensively, 8 of the 9 batters reached base in what was a balanced full-frontal attack as they tacked on their 9 runs behind 9 hits and 5 walks while only striking out 4 times.

Nevertheless, the stars at the plate were the duet of Philadelphia Phillies prospect Diego Gonzalez and Briley Knight, who hit-back-to-back home runs on back-to-back pitches in the top of the fifth inning that made it a 7-0 ballgame.

Both Gonzalez and Knight had 2 hits each to lead the team.

Jared Carr, another 2021 MLB Draftee of the Philadelphia Phillies, also continued his hot streak as he breaks the Adelaide Giants franchise record for most consecutive games with a hit with 16.

With this loss, the Melbourne Aces are no longer in full control of their fate, as they would not only need to win the series and season finale against the Giants tomorrow, but also hope that Perth loses to Sydney, and that Brisbane beats Canberra once.

BOX SCORE

Sydney Blue Sox secure Minor Premiership for first time in 14 years in 12-2 victory over the Heat

While the job is not finished for the Blue Sox, for tonight the team can soak it in as they orchestrated one of the largest turnarounds in modern ABL history, being just the fourth team to go from last to first in consecutive seasons in one of the most competitive seasons yet.

The Blue Sox got off to a bang, scoring three quick runs in the bottom of the first in typical Blue Sox fashion. A leadoff single by Brendan Ryan, who then stole second and third as Jake MacKenzie walks, and scores off a wild pitch.

MacKenzie would later score on an RBI single from Cory Acton, who then scored from an RBI groundout.

While the Heat tried to respond later in the game with a solo home run from Enderson Delgado, that was all she wrote for Perth as Sydney reciprocated by scoring from a fielder’s choice and a 2-RBI single from Clayton Campbell.

And just for good measure, the Blue Sox bat around the order in the bottom of the seventh, scoring 6 runs as they featured 3 doubles and a home run from Harry Fullerton.

Ryan, MacKenzie, Campbell, as well as Alberto Rios led the bats for Sydney, each recording 2.

On the mound, Alex Wells puts the finishing touches on a dominant season, going 6.0 innings allowing just 1 earned run off 5 hits, 1 walk, while striking out 7 as he picks up the win for Sydney.

For the Heat, all four of the batters that recorded a hit— Johnny Ascanio, Alex Hall, Tim Kennelly, and Enderson Delgado—had two of them each.

With just one game left on the season, Perth is still mathematically in the fight for a chance at the dance for the Claxton Shield. Fortunately for them, their fate is still in their hands as they would either need to defeat Sydney in the season finale, or for either Brisbane to defeat Canberra, or for Adelaide to defeat Melbourne.

BOX SCORE

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