The Battle Creek Battle Jacks are making big moves heading into 2026. With a new front office, fresh leadership on the field, and ambitious upgrades for fans and sponsors, new owner Scott Miles is putting his stamp on the team in a major way.

“We’re raising the bar with a seasoned, high-energy leadership team, and it’s already paying off,” said Miles. “We’ve hit the ground running, not just with elite early player signings, but also on the business side with identified key opportunities for us to make an immediate impact as a new management group. Next season, fans, sponsors, and groups will see a game-day experience that’s been elevated across the board.”

Miles, who purchased the team at the start of the 2025 season, spent his first summer observing and learning. Now, he’s ready to raise expectations: “It’s time to improve the food, tighten the show, and put a more competitive team on the field.”

A New Leadership Team

The Battle Jacks introduced three key hires who will lead the charge into 2026:

Sam Connell, General Manager – A Michigan native and former collegiate player, Connell brings more than a decade of front office experience, including six seasons in the Northwoods League. Most recently with the Traverse City Pit Spitters, Connell will lead day-to-day business operations and serve as the face of the franchise in the Battle Creek community.
Chris Fletcher, Manager – A seasoned coach and respected baseball mind, Fletcher is currently the founder and head coach of the baseball program at Moberly Area Community College in Missouri. With 12 years of coaching experience and a reputation for developing talent and building high-character teams, Fletcher will lead the Battle Jacks on the field.
David Walsh Jr., Head of Baseball Strategy – The team’s first-ever Head of Baseball Strategy will focus on long-term player development, recruiting infrastructure, and baseball operations. Walsh has deep ties to elite college programs across the Northeast and brings over a decade of coaching experience, including multiple College World Series appearances.

Building the 2026 Team

Fletcher and Walsh have wasted no time shaping the 2026 roster. Twelve players are already committed, highlighted by lefty power arms, thumpers at the corners, an outfield full of horses who can cover the field, anchored by an All-American shortstop/second baseman anchoring the infield.

This isn’t just depth, it’s elite-level talent coming to Battle Creek, the foundation of a new culture that reflects the city’s grit and work ethic.

“We’re building a roster that plays the game the right way, gritty and relentless,” said Head of Baseball Dave Walsh. “It’s the kind of team the Battle Creek community can be proud of.”

Manager Chris Fletcher added, “Our focus is on developing players who not only compete, but also buy into a team-first identity. That’s what will set us apart. Our goal is to compete every night, make our community proud, and bring a championship to Battle Creek.”

Upgrades for Fans & Sponsors

Beyond the roster, the Battle Jacks are also enhancing the ballpark experience:

Food: Better quality, upgraded menu, and improved preparation and service.
Groups & Hospitality: Enhanced ticket packages and hospitality options to deliver more value for corporate and community events.
Entertainment & Music: Fresh programming every game, with 36 nights of fun planned for MCCU Field at C.O. Brown Stadium.

The Battle Jacks’ fifth season promises to be the most exciting yet, with new leadership, rising talent, and a renewed focus on creating the best game-day experience in the Northwoods League.

📞 Contact Us: To learn more about partnership opportunities, ticket packages, or ways to get involved with the Battle Jacks, reach out to our front office at (269) 962-0735 or email sam@battlejacksbaseball.com.