The North Country Thunderbirds have officially announced the hiring of Wilson Matos as their new manager for the upcoming season. Matos, who spent the last four years as an assistant coach with the SUNY Canton baseball program, brings a wealth of experience and a strong developmental background to the Thunderbirds.

During his tenure at SUNY Canton, Matos played a crucial role in player development, focusing on both hitting and defensive strategies. His work helped elevate the program, making it more competitive in regional play. Prior to his coaching career, Matos had a successful playing career, bringing firsthand knowledge of the game’s demands to his coaching approach.

“We are excited to welcome Wilson to the Thunderbirds organization,” said the team’s general manager. “His dedication to player development and his experience at the collegiate level make him a perfect fit to lead our team. We believe he will have an immediate impact on our players and help establish a winning culture.”

Matos will take the helm as the Thunderbirds prepare for the upcoming season, looking to make a strong push in league competition. His emphasis on fundamentals, team chemistry, and disciplined play aligns well with the organization’s goals.

“I’m honored to join the North Country Thunderbirds and eager to get started,” said Matos. “This is a great opportunity to work with talented players and help them reach their potential. I look forward to building a competitive and hardworking team that fans will be proud to support.”

With Matos now leading the way, the Thunderbirds are set to enter the season with renewed energy and high expectations. Fans can look forward to an exciting summer of baseball under his guidance.

The Empire League is expanding its footprint beyond the East Coast with the introduction of the Los Angeles Bullies, a new franchise set to bring West Coast energy to the competitive independent baseball scene. While the Bullies will represent Los Angeles, they will embark on an unconventional journey as a road team, competing primarily in the East against the league’s established franchises.

Leading the charge as head coach is none other than Joey Molina, a seasoned baseball mind with experience in coaching and scouting for the Mexican Baseball League (LMB). Molina, known for his sharp eye for talent and strategic prowess, has also played a key role in the Zone 22 Games, an elite platform for emerging baseball prospects. His leadership will be crucial in establishing the Bullies as a formidable contender from day one.

Despite their unique status as a road team, the Bullies aim to build a strong identity that reflects the grit and toughness associated with Los Angeles baseball culture. They will bring West Coast flair to the Empire League, showcasing a roster filled with raw talent looking to prove themselves at the professional level. Players will have the opportunity to compete under the guidance of a respected coach with a track record of developing future stars.

The addition of the Bullies marks a strategic step for the Empire League, broadening its reach and creating new rivalries between teams from opposite coasts. While the team’s home games will take place away from Los Angeles for now, their presence is expected to pave the way for future expansion into the Western market.

Fans on both coasts will be eager to see how this ambitious squad fares in its inaugural season. With Molina at the helm, the Los Angeles Bullies are ready to take on the challenge and leave their mark on the Empire League.

The Empire League is thrilled to announce that Ryan Sandberg, a standout player for the Empire Leagues Greys, has signed with the Milwaukee Brewers organization. This marks an incredible milestone in Sandberg’s professional baseball journey, one that began with the Empire Leagues Greys in the MLB-partnered Empire League.

Ryan Sandberg joined the Greys with a passion for the game and a determination to prove himself at the professional level. During his time in the Empire League, he consistently demonstrated exceptional skills on the field, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to growth, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches alike.

“Ryan has been a tremendous player and person for our organization,” said Jerry Gonzalez, Part Owner of the Empire Leagues Greys. “His hard work and dedication have paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder to see him take this next step in his career.”

Sandberg’s journey is a testament to the opportunities provided by the Empire League, which serves as a launching pad for talented players seeking to showcase their abilities and advance to higher levels of professional baseball. The league’s commitment to player development and exposure is evident in success stories like Sandberg’s.

As Sandberg transitions to the Brewers organization, he carries with him the skills, discipline, and experience honed during his time in the Empire League. His signing is a reminder of the incredible potential within the league and its ability to connect players with opportunities to achieve their dreams.

The entire Empire League community wishes Ryan Sandberg the best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his baseball career. We look forward to seeing his continued success on the field and are proud to have been a part of his journey.

For aspiring players looking to follow in Sandberg’s footsteps, the Empire League continues to provide a platform for development and exposure. Learn more about how you can join the Empire League and begin your path to professional baseball at empireproleague.com.

The anticipation for the 2025 Empire League season is officially underway as the first four selections have been revealed. Each of the teams made significant moves to bolster their rosters, showcasing the league’s commitment to developing talent and fostering competitive baseball. Here’s a breakdown of the top picks:

1. Tupper Lake Riverpigs – Alex Pup (Shortstop)

The Riverpigs kicked off the selections by selecting Alex Pup, a highly skilled shortstop known for his defensive prowess and consistent bat. Pup’s range and quick hands make him a standout in the field, while his ability to make contact at the plate adds depth to Tupper Lake’s lineup. The Riverpigs are banking on Pup’s leadership and energy to set the tone for their 2025 campaign.

2. Malone Border Hounds – Garrett Musey (First Baseman)

The Border Hounds added a powerful presence to their lineup in Garrett Musey. Known for his ability to hit for power and average, Musey brings a big bat and a solid glove to first base. His plate discipline and knack for driving in runs make him a game-changing addition for Malone, who are looking to build a dominant offensive unit this season.

3. North Country Thunderbirds – Jordi Dominguez (2-Way Player)

The Thunderbirds made a bold statement by selecting Jordi Dominguez, a rare and talented two-way player. Dominguez excels both as a pitcher and a position player, giving North Country flexibility and depth on their roster. His pitching arsenal features an electric fastball and sharp breaking pitches, while his hitting ability adds another dynamic element to the Thunderbirds’ lineup.

4. Saranac Lake Surge – Nick Chuisano (Catcher)

Rounding out the top four, the Surge selected Nick Chuisano, a catcher with a reputation for his defensive skills and game-calling acumen. Chuisano’s ability to work with pitchers and control the running game makes him an invaluable asset behind the plate. His offensive potential further solidifies him as a key contributor for Saranac Lake as they aim to improve their standing in 2025.

A Promising Season Ahead

The first four picks highlight the Empire League’s dedication to finding and showcasing talent across all aspects of the game. These players not only bring unique skill sets to their respective teams but also represent the bright future of independent baseball. As the league gears up for the new season, fans can expect intense competition and thrilling moments on the diamond.

Stay tuned for further updates on the 2025 Empire League season as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for opening day!

The Trois-Rivières Aigles of the MLB-partnered Frontier League have made a major offseason acquisition, signing former New York Yankees minor league shortstop Edward Sanchez. The move follows Sanchez’s impressive performance at Empire Instructs, the premier professional baseball showcase held at Terry Park Sports Complex in Ft. Myers, Florida.

Sanchez, a 25-year-old shortstop, showcased his elite defensive skills and a much-improved offensive game during the three-week Empire Instructs program. Known for his quick hands, range, and strong arm, Sanchez also impressed scouts with his ability to consistently make hard contact at the plate. These performances caught the attention of several teams, but it was the Aigles who secured his services.

“Edward is a dynamic player with a lot of upside,” said Jonathan Albaladejo, manager of the Trois-Rivières Aigles. “His experience with the Yankees organization and the work he’s put in at Empire Instructs show his dedication to improving his craft. We’re excited to have him join our team and look forward to seeing him make an impact.”

Sanchez began his professional career in the Yankees organization, where he quickly earned a reputation as a standout defender. Despite his defensive prowess, injuries and inconsistency at the plate stalled his progress in the highly competitive system. Following his release, Sanchez committed to refining his skills and regaining his form, which led him to participate in Empire Instructs.

The Empire Instructs showcase is designed to provide free agents an opportunity to train and compete in front of professional scouts and coaches, offering players a chance to reignite their careers. With limited spots available, the program attracts high-caliber talent eager to prove themselves, and Sanchez’s story is a testament to its success.

“Empire Instructs gave me the chance to show what I’m capable of,” Sanchez said. “It’s been a journey, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my career with the Aigles. I’m ready to give it my all.”

The Aigles, who compete in the Frontier League—a partner league of Major League Baseball—are gearing up for a strong 2025 campaign. Sanchez’s signing adds depth to their infield and brings a mix of experience and potential to their roster.