2025 Frontier League News
Paterson, NJ — New Jersey Jackals are entering a new era of leadership and community engagement under the ownership of Baye Adofo-Wilson, co-developer of the newly restored Hinchliffe Stadium and majority owner of the New York Cosmos. The announcement marks an exciting chapter for both the Jackals and the city of Paterson. Baye Adofo-Wilson, a Paterson native and U.S. Army Veteran, brings his experience in sports management, community development, and business leadership to the organization. “The Jackals are more than just a baseball team — they’re a cornerstone of community pride and opportunity,” said Baye Adofo-Wilson. “Our goal is to deepen our connection with the fans and businesses in Paterson and Passaic County. This is about creating family-friendly entertainment for the local community and celebrating the legacy and future of baseball in Paterson. ” As part of Adofo-Wilson’s vision, the Jackals will enhance the fan experience at Historic Hinchliffe Stadium, a site that represents both the cultural and athletic heritage of the region. To bring Adofo-Wilson’s vision to life, the Jackals plan to bolster community programming as well as parter with local businesses in the hopes of revitalizing urban sports and fostering inclusive growth. “The Frontier League welcomes Baye Adofo-Wilson to our ownership family,” said Steve Tahsler, Commissioner of the Frontier League. “Baye’s leadership at Hinchliffe Stadium and the New York Cosmos demonstrates a clear passion for community, innovation, and sports — all values that align with the mission of the Frontier League.” The New Jersey Jackals will open their 4th season at Hinchliffe Stadium in May 2026. Season ticket packages are available now at www.Jackals.com . About Baye Adofo-Wilson: Baye Adofo-Wilson is a Paterson native, U.S. Army Veteran, respected real estate developer, attorney, and entrepreneur with a career spanning public service, community development, and professional sports. About the New Jersey Jackals: Founded in 1998, the Jackals are New Jersey’s longest tenured professional baseball team. They compete in the Frontier League, a partner league of Major League Baseball and are committed to providing affordable, fun family-friendly entertainment to a diverse audience while supporting the growth of professional baseball. Media Contact: V. George Moreira George@jackals.com www.jackals.com
CLEVELAND – The Lake Erie Crushers and Forefront Technology Inc . today announced a multiyear partnership that includes the naming rights to the Crushers’ stadium. The stadium will now be called ForeFront Field, effective immediately. ForeFront Technology – an Ohio-based leader in managed technology services, consulting, cybersecurity, cloud architecture and IT infrastructure – joins the Crushers family as the Official Technology Provider of the Lake Erie Crushers and ForeFront Field. Technological advancements at ForeFront Field include a next-generation Cisco Smart Stadium technology ecosystem, which will elevate fan wireless experience and provide the foundation for future enhancements to visitor engagement. “ForeFront Technology stands as a true leader in their industry and an integral part of Northeast Ohio and will be a great strategic partner,” said Len Komoroski, Lake Erie Crushers Chairman and Managing Partner. “Together, we’re committed to elevating the fan experience that our community cherishes at ForeFront Field. We look forward to building on a tradition of innovation and excitement, while continuing to deliver the family-friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere that makes ForeFront Field such a beloved destination for our community.” As part of the agreement, the ForeFront Field brand will be showcased prominently throughout the venue and across all digital platforms. Fans will see the ForeFront name featured on major signage, stadium gates, the scoreboard, home plate backdrops and online channels. Beyond branding, the partnership also encompasses a range of cross-promotional and community engagement initiatives, including technology-driven fan experiences, the ForeFront Field Wi-Fi portal and collaborative STEAM education events, such as a thematic game experience. “We are beyond thrilled to join the Crushers organization in bringing a world-class fan experience to Northeast Ohio,” said Joshua Cornett, ForeFront Technology Founder and CEO. “Our partnership is far more than a name on the stadium. It is a true collaborative effort designed from its inception to transform Forefront Field into a premier technology-enabled destination. Standing beside Len, Vic and the entire Crushers team during this journey is an absolute honor and we look forward to every step along the way.” Rock Entertainment Group , the sports and entertainment entity that houses Dan Gilbert’s sports teams and sporting investment in Cleveland, was engaged by the Lake Erie Crushers to lead the search, strategic development and, ultimately, the execution of the partnership, including the naming rights of the stadium. A formal media event celebrating the partnership and unveiling new ForeFront Field signage will be held at the stadium in Avon, Ohio. More information on the media event will be communicated when available.
AVON, OH — The Frontier League is excited to announce that fan voting is now open for the 2025 Frontier League Team Photographer of the Year Award. Throughout the 2025 season, photographers from across the league have showcased their creativity and talent by capturing the defining moments of Frontier League baseball. Their work helps tell the story of the league and the athletes who make it unforgettable. Now, fans have the opportunity to help decide who will be named the 2025 Frontier League Team Photographer of the Year. Voting is open through Tuesday, November 26. Fans may cast one vote per email address. Support your favorite photographer by viewing all submission s and casting your vote through the links available below, or by visiting the Frontier League official social media bios. The nominees are: Michael Letendre - Brockton Rox Dave Hilbert - Down East Bird Dawgs Cat Gonzales - Evansville Otters Kyle Dressman - Florence Y'alls Olivia Gray - Gateway Grizzlies Adam Jomant - Joliet Slammers Crushers Media Team - Lake Erie Crushers Tate Nations - Mississippi Mud Monsters Will Quincy - New York Boulders Danielle Gaudet - Ottawa Titans Christian Gingras - Québec Capitales Thomas Anson - Schaumburg Boomers Phil Hoops - Sussex County Miners Christian Halayko - Tri-City ValleyCats ThunderBolts Media Team - Windy City Thunderbolts Wild Things Media Team - Washington Wild Things VOTE HERE
FLORENCE, KY - The Florence Y’alls, presented by Towne Properties, had the contract of catcher, Henry Hunter, purchased by the Cincinnati Reds this past weekend. Hunter, out of Snellville, GA, was a mid-season addition for the Y’alls in 2025 and made an immediate impact behind the plate and in the clubhouse. The 22-year-old lefty provided stability behind the plate and a consistent contact bat in the lineup for Florence in the stretch run. The University of Georgia product finished his final two collegiate seasons as a starting catcher in the SEC with the Bulldogs. The high-level competition in college translated well to the Frontier League, allowing Hunter to hit the ground running when he joined Florence in late July. Hunter slashed an impressive .260/.353/.356 in 21 games with the Y’alls, including eight RBIs and seven doubles. His stellar defense behind the plate and infectious energy in the clubhouse were his strongest contributions to the organization. Hunter’s personality and charisma immediately blended with the Y’alls culture, which certainly made a positive impact on his teammates and the fans in his time with Florence. Hunter’s last at-bat with Florence also marked the final moment of the Y’alls 2025 season. On August 31st against Schaumburg at Thomas More Stadium, Hunter ripped a sacrifice fly to deep left field to walk off the Boomers and complete a three-game sweep. A thrilling end to the season and now a heroic sendoff for Hunter as he takes the next step to what we hope will be a long and successful professional career. Florence will return for an exciting baseball season in 2026 starting with Opening Day on May 8th at Evansville and including the All-Star celebration that will shine a spotlight on Northern Kentucky. Florence welcomes fans back to Thomas More Stadium for its home opener on May 12, 2026, against the Mississippi Mud Monsters, marking the start of a six-game homestand that includes a weekend series against Evansville.
JOLIET, IL - The Joliet Slammers are proud to announce the re-signing of Field Manager Mike Pinto to a multi-year contract extension marking another chapter in his long and successful tenure in the Frontier League and third season with the Slammers. Since joining the Slammers, Pinto has already helped the club in strengthening its culture on and off the field. In addition to collecting his 900th career win last season, he led three Slammers All-Stars to New York and his focus on player development was on full display as Ian Battipaglia earned the honor of Frontier League Rookie of the Year under Pinto’s guidance. With Pinto’s steady leadership and proven ability to develop talent, the Slammers are well-positioned to build sustained success in the seasons ahead. “Bringing Mike back was never in doubt,” said Night Train Veeck, Executive Vice President. “His strong track record for developing players, forging strong cultures, and connecting with the Joliet community makes him an ideal leader for our clubhouse. He has been instrumental in building the team over the last two seasons, and I couldn’t be more excited to have him back on the field in 2026!” The 2026 season will mark Pinto’s 19th season as a manager in Independent League Baseball. Before joining the Slammers in 2024, he spent 14 years managing the Southern Illinois Miners to 13 winning seasons culminating in seven playoff appearances, four division titles, and winning the Frontier League Championship in 2012 with a 55-39 record in Southern Illinois. "We’ve spent the last two seasons rebuilding from the inside out — bringing in a core of young talent, All-Stars, and most importantly, the right kind of people our fans can be proud of. I’m excited to be back with our coaching staff to keep building a culture that plays hard, plays together, and represents the winning traditions of the Joliet community” said Field Manager, Mike Pinto. With Pinto returning to the dugout, the Slammers are excited to strengthen their roster and continue investing in both player development and fan experience as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Slammers will open up their 2026 season on Friday, May 8th at 6:35pm against the Washington Wild Things! Keep an eye out for the game times and promotional schedule for the next fun filled season of Slammers baseball! To place a deposit on your season tickets or book your group outing for 2026, call the Slammers box office at 815-722-2287.
Avon, OH – The Frontier League is proud to be once again represented by alumni in the 2025 Arizona Fall League, an offseason showcase featuring many of Major League Baseball’s top prospects and rising players. Included this year are former Frontier League players Nate Wohlgemuth (Evansville Otters), Trevor Kuncl (Lake Erie Crushers), Josh Loeschorn (New York Boulders), and Dariel Fregio (Washington Wild Things), who are each taking the mound in Arizona. Former Joliet Slammer Nick Lovullo appears this Fall as the coach for the Mesa team. Nate Wohlgemuth | Evansville Otters — Houston Astros From Evansville to the Arizona desert, former Otter's pitcher Nate Wohlgemuth is proving that hard work pays off. Wohlgemuth began the 2025 season with the Otters, and quickly stood out, with his contract being purchased by the Houston Astros organization in June. Once in the Astros system, Wohlgemuth wasted no time proving he belonged. The right-hander appeared in 17 games for High-A Asheville, recording a 3.13 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 23 innings out of the bullpen. His consistent command and fastball velocity, reaching as high as 98 mph, earned him a spot in the Arizona Fall League, where he’s now facing some of the game’s top prospects. Trevor Kuncl | Lake Erie Crushers — Cincinnati Reds An All-Star for the Lake Erie Crushers, Trevor Kuncl spent three seasons in the Frontier League, posting a 2.98 ERA with 168 strikeouts in 142 innings pitched. His contract was purchased by the Cincinnati Reds following the 2024 season. Kuncl continued to impress in his first year of affiliated baseball, posting a 2.34 ERA with 51 strikeouts over 50 innings for Double-A Chattanooga. He now represents the Reds organization with Peoria in the Arizona Fall League. Josh Loeschorn | New York Boulders — Pittsburgh Pirates Josh Loeschorn made his Frontier League debut with the New York Boulders in 2022, where he pitched 26 innings across five games, striking out 18. Shortly after, he was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2022 MLB Draft. In two seasons within the Pirates organization, Loeschorn has an ERA of 3.64, and 113 strikeouts in 96 innings. Now competing for Salt River in the Arizona Fall League, he has credited the Frontier League for giving him his first opportunity to face professional-level hitters. Dariel Fregio | Washington Wild Things — Detroit Tigers After two standout seasons with the Washington Wild Things, Dariel Fregio had his contract purchased by the Detroit Tigers organization ahead of the 2025 season. In Washington, he logged 164 innings with a 4.04 ERA and 128 strikeouts. Fregio has carried that success into affiliated baseball, posting a 1.82 ERA with 43 strikeouts in 39.2 innings pitched in his first season with the Tigers system. He is currently competing in the Arizona Fall League with Scottsdale. Nick Lovullo | Joliet Slammers — Chicago Cubs Organization Rounding out the Frontier League’s representation is Nick Lovullo, who played with the Joliet Slammers in 2021 before transitioning into coaching. Lovullo now manages the South Bend Cubs, the High-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, and is serving as a coach of the Mesa Solar Sox in the Arizona Fall League.
Avon, OH – As the Toronto Blue Jays battle in the American League Championship Series, one name in their coaching staff may be familiar to Frontier League fans, hitting coach David Popkins. Popkins spent the 2015 and 2016 seasons with the Washington Wild Things, where he quickly became one of the franchise’s top offensive performers. In 2015, he hit 20 home runs, becoming one of just seven players in team history to record a 20-plus homer season. The following year, Popkins posted a .309 batting average with 15 home runs, 48 RBI, and 26 doubles, earning a selection as a 2016 Frontier League All-Star. Following his playing career, Popkins transitioned into coaching and joined the Minnesota Twins as their hitting coach from 2022–2023. He is currently serving in the same role with the Toronto Blue Jays, helping guide the club’s offense through the 2025 postseason. From his standout seasons in Washington to coaching on baseball’s biggest stage, Popkins continues to make an impact at every level of the game.
Ottawa, ON – The Ottawa Titans Field of Dreams Foundation is now accepting funding applications from registered children’s charities across the National Capital Region. Applications will be accepted from now through Friday, November 21, for funds raised during the 2025 Frontier League season. Eligible charities must be based in the National Capital Region and registered as a children’s organization. Applications must be submitted online using the form linked below. Each submission should include a brief overview of the organization, the amount being requested, and a clear outline of how the funds will be used. The Foundation recommends that funding requests fall within the range of $1,000 to $5,000. Funds will be allocated in early 2026, and distribution will begin in late February. “The Board of the Ottawa Titans Field of Dreams Foundation looks forward to receiving and carefully reviewing application requests sent our way to fund deserving programs in our community,” said Jacques J.M. Shore, C.M. , President of the Field of Dreams Foundation. “In this third year of our Foundation’s selection process, it will be a joy and privilege for us to recognize those programs that meet the criteria and goals of our mission. While we are still a relatively new organization, we take pride in demonstrating that our contributions do indeed make a positive difference in our wonderful Nation’s Capital.” In 2024, the organization proudly raised and distributed over $38,000 to 22 registered children’s charities throughout the National Capital Region. This milestone brings the total contributions to more than $100,000 in just three years, underscoring the organization's ongoing commitment to supporting youth-focused initiatives in the community. “We are so proud and happy to have been a recipient of funding from the Ottawa Titans Field of Dreams Foundation,” outlined Natalie Benson of Christie Lake Kids. “It’s really helped us expand and grow our programs in Ottawa for low-income children and youth. The funding has allowed us to keep these programs at no cost for families who need them.” Since its inception, the Ottawa Titans Field of Dreams Foundation has worked to create inclusive, meaningful opportunities for children of all ages and abilities – fostering life skills, friendship, and a lifelong love for the game of baseball. The Foundation focuses on raising funds to provide access to baseball, other sports, and community-based programs and events. It partners with like-minded local organizations to strengthen its impact and expand its reach. Funds are generated through fan donations, memorabilia auctions, and 50/50 ticket sales during Ottawa Titans home games at Ottawa Stadium. Applications may be submitted by visiting: tinyurl.com/mrztrs5j For information on the Ottawa Titans Field of Dreams Foundation, visit www.ottawatitans.com . -30- For Media Inquiries: Davide Disipio Manager, Media Relations & Broadcast Phone: (343) 633-2273 x 103 Email: ddisipio@ottawatitans.com
AVON, OH – The Frontier League has announced its schedule for its 33rd season! The 2026 regular season will begin on Thursday, May 7th, with all 18 teams once again set to compete across the U.S. and Canada. Each team will play a scheduled 102 regular season games, an increase from the previous 96 game schedule. The reigning four-time Frontier League Champion Québec Capitales will open their title defense on the road against the Ottawa Titans. Québec fans will get their first chance to see the Capitales at home on Tuesday, May 26th, when they welcome the Sussex County Miners to Stade CANAC. One of the most anticipated dates on the schedule comes on Tuesday, June 30th, when Québec travels to Schaumburg to face the Boomers in a Championship Series rematch. The Boomers will begin their 2026 campaign on the road against Lake Erie, where the Crushers look to avenge their 2025 playoff series loss to Schaumburg. This season’s Frontier League All-Star Game will be hosted by the Florence Y’alls at Thomas More Stadium in Florence, Kentucky. The festivities will take place from Monday, July 13th through Wednesday, July 15th, bringing together the League’s brightest stars for three days of celebration. Another highlight of the 2026 season will be Independence Day, as Tri-City, Sussex County, New York, Down East, Lake Erie, Joliet, Schaumburg, Mississippi, and Gateway host special Fourth of July celebrations at their ballparks on Saturday. “Coming off our fourth consecutive regular season attendance record plus record attendance for a tremendous Championship Series, we are excited to announce the 2026 schedule, the 33rd season of Frontier League baseball,” said Commissioner Steve Tahsler. “Our teams have been eagerly awaiting the official schedule release so they can begin implementing their plans for 2026.” The Frontier League Playoff Schedule is as followed (subject to change): WILD CARD ROUND – (BEST OF 3) Wednesday, September 9 – Division Winners @ Wild Card qualifiers Thursday, September 10 – travel / rain day Friday, September 11 – Wild Card qualifiers @ Division Winners Saturday, September 12 - Wild Card qualifiers @ Division Winners (if necessary) CONFERENCE FINALS – (BEST OF 5) Tuesday, September 15 – higher-seeded team @ lower-seeded team Wednesday, September 16 – higher-seeded team @ lower-seeded team Thursday, September 17 – travel / rain day Friday, September 18 – lower-seeded team @ higher-seeded team Saturday, September 19 – lower-seeded team @ higher-seeded team (if necessary) Sunday, September 20 – lower-seeded team @ higher-seeded team (if necessary) FRONTIER LEAGUE FINALS – (BEST OF 5) Tuesday, September 22 – Atlantic Conference representative @ Midwest Conference representative Wednesday, September 23 – Atlantic Conference representative @ Midwest Conference representative Thursday, September 24 – travel / rain day Friday, September 25 – Midwest Conference representative @ Atlantic Conference representative Saturday, September 26 – Midwest Conference representative @ Atlantic Conference representative (if necessary) Sunday, September 27 – Midwest Conference representative @ Atlantic Conference representative (if necessary) CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SCHEDULE
