Bird Dawgs Retain 22 Players for 2026 Season
KINSTON, N.C. (December 15, 2025) – The Down East Bird Dawgs have exercised contract options for 22 players as the club builds toward the 2026 season.
The returning players include 11 pitchers, five infielders, three outfielders, and three utility players, as the Bird Dawgs continue building on the foundation established during their inaugural season.
Pitchers
Axel Andueza, Gehrig Ebel, Drew Henderson, Jackson Hicks, Spencer Johnston, Brandon Kaminer, Jacob King, Andrew LaCour, Greg Martinez, Caden O’Brien, David Tiburcio
Infielders
Tyler Blaum, Trotter Harlan, Kalae Harrison, Yassel Pino, Elias Stevens
Outfielders
Colby Backus, Cole Hill, Ali LaPread
Utility Players
Christian Adams, Stephen DiTomaso, Yeniel Laboy
With the core of the roster in place, the Bird Dawgs will continue preparations for the 2026 season, with additional player announcements expected in the coming months.
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For more information and to stay updated on upcoming events, announcements and promotions, visit www.DownEastBirdDawgs.com and follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.
About the Down East Bird Dawgs
The Down East Bird Dawgs are a professional baseball team in the Frontier League, an MLB Partner League. The team began their inaugural season in May 2025 at Historic Grainger Stadium, in Kinston, NC. The team is continuing baseball traditions in the Kinston community with competitive play, captivating promotions, and top-notch community involvement & events.
Media Contact: Spencer Pattison | Director of Broadcasting & Media Relations (office) 252.549.4388 (email) [email protected]