As American Legion Baseball celebrates its 100th anniversary nationwide, Maine’s Senior and Junior Legion programs are set to deliver one of the most competitive and widespread seasons in recent memory. With more than a dozen Senior teams and a growing number of Junior squads spread across the state—from Hampden to Downeast to Farmington—this summer marks a powerful blend of tradition and renewal. Coaches, players, and communities alike are rallying around the game, fielding experienced returning cores, exciting young prospects, and programs committed to both winning and honoring the values of the Legion.
Post 28 Flyers Reload for 2025 After Historic State Final Run
FARMINGTON, Maine – After finishing as state runners-up in 2024, the Roderick-Crosby Post 28 Flyers (formerly known as the Franklin County Flyers) return to Hippach Field looking to build on the most successful season in program history—this time with a deeper roster and an expanded operation.
Second-year head coach and program director Aaron Goschke leads a returning staff that includes assistants TJ Dorn and Peter Decarolis, joined by five first-year coaches—four of whom are former Flyers stepping into coaching roles for the first time.
The Senior Legion roster features Mt. Blue standouts Nolan Leso (’25) and Aiden Wilkins (’25), along with fellow KVAC All-Star Gage Decarolis (’25) and Aiden Wilkins. They’re joined by Mt. Abram contributors Bryce Wilcox (’25), Logan Dube (’25), and the electric Ash Rollins (’25). Trevor Crosby (Dirigo ’26) adds speed and versatility to the mix.
New this summer is the return of a Junior Legion team, built around varsity-caliber players from Mt. Blue, Mt. Abram, Mountain Valley, Dirigo, and Spruce Mountain. Key contributors include catcher Kegan Jordan (Mountain Valley ’28), two-way threat Josh Pollis (Mountain Valley ’27), and physical presence Kaeden Swan (Dirigo ’27).
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of American Legion Baseball, the Flyers will take the field in brand-new uniforms featuring commemorative patches—honoring the legacy, service, and spirit that have defined the Legion for a century.
Capital Area Legion Baseball Poised for Strong 2025 Campaign
AUGUSTA, Maine – Capital Area Legion Baseball enters the 2025 season with confidence and depth across both its Senior and Junior teams, powered by a strong blend of veteran leadership and rising young talent. Both squads will once again call Morton Field home.
Senior Legion Focused on Late-Season Push
Returning for his third year at the helm, head coach Eli Bezanson will lead the Senior Legion squad alongside assistants Don Plourde and Gunther Loiko. After a solid 2024 campaign, the addition of eight new players—paired with a returning veteran core—positions Capital Area to be highly competitive throughout the summer.
Notable returners include right-hander Trent Collin (Winthrop ’25), outfielder Parker Morin (Cony ’26, KVAC Class B Player of the Year), left-hander Max Tibbetts (Cony ’26), and catcher Gage McGrane (UMA). The program continues to produce college-level talent, with recent alumni now playing at Colby, USM, SMCC, and UMA.
Junior Legion Embraces Youth Movement
Led by head coach Thad Barber and supported by coaches Bill Grant, Royce Watson, and Kyle Allen, the Junior Legion team enters the season with one of its youngest groups yet—averaging under 15 years old. Despite their age, Barber is confident the team will compete hard and continue developing, with an eye toward a strong showing in Bangor come tournament time.
Players to watch include Will Watson (Maranacook ’28), Tyler Barber (Temple ’29), Drew Lindquest (Cony ’28), Carter Ulmer (Erskine Academy ’28), Ryan Harbaugh (Gardiner ’28), and Wyatt Grant (Winthrop ’28).
With 31 Junior-eligible players in the fold, Barber believes the future is bright and the foundation is being laid for sustained success at the Senior level.
Downeast Captains Ready to Launch First Senior Legion Season
CHERRYFIELD, Maine – The Downeast Captains are set to embark on their inaugural Senior Legion season, bringing excitement and pride to the region as they take the field at Narraguagus High School. Led by Renée Worcester, Jamie Robertson, Rob Worcester, and Mike Worcester, the program is building on a strong foundation established at the Junior Legion level.
After finishing 13-6 last summer, the Captains have elevated a core group of talented players to the Senior roster. Headlining the group is Armando “Manny” Absalom (Narraguagus ’25), a UMaine Farmington commit, and Colby Moholland (Washington Academy ’27), committed to the University of Maine. Daniel Gardner (Washington Academy ’26) and Miles Worcester (Narraguagus ’26) add further strength to a young but dynamic lineup.
Chartered through American Legion Post 8 in Cherryfield, the Captains are embracing the 100th anniversary of Legion Baseball by honoring local veterans at each home game. Prior to first pitch, a veteran’s biography will be read, and each honoree will receive a commemorative centennial baseball as a tribute to their service.
With strong community support and a rising group of ballplayers from across eastern Maine, the Downeast Captains are eager to make a statement in their debut Senior Legion campaign.
Trenton’s Legion Legacy Grows with Deep Senior and Junior Rosters
TRENTON, Maine – The Trenton Senior Acadians, a storied baseball program from the Ellsworth-Bar Harbor region, are led by fourth-year head coach Brad Smith and a veteran coaching staff including Josh Jackson, Adam Sheehan, Mike Boles, Shawn Barry, and Nick Kane.
The Acadians are coming off a strong season and look to make an immediate impact with a deep, talented roster. Key returning players include elite pitchers Dawson Curtis (Ellsworth ’26) and Jackson Barry (Ellsworth ’26), both Class B Co-Pitchers of the Year, and standout Colin Sullivan (MDI ’26), named Class B Player of the Year.
Other key contributors include Trent Goss (Bucksport ’25), Brady Pert (GSA ’24, SMCC), Ayden Maguire (Bucksport ’24), Miles Palmer (Ellsworth ’24), Joey Wellman-Clouse (MDI ’24, UMF), and Wyatt Bragdon (Ellsworth ’24, SMCC).
The Acadians proudly represent a program with a rich tradition, highlighted by a World Series appearance in 2023 led by Hunter Curtis (Husson) and Peter Keblinsky (SMCC/USM), now excelling at the college baseball level.
On the Junior Legion side, coach Conner Wagstaff’s team enters its third season fresh off winning back-to-back state championships. Young veterans Evan Haskell (Ellsworth ’28), Coleman Welch (Ellsworth ’28), Joey Beal (Ellsworth ’27), Brayden Sekulich (Ellsworth ’27), Wyl Renwick (Sumner ’27), Brayden Pooler (Ellsworth ’29), and newcomer Charlie Sullivan (GSA ’28) lead a strong core looking for a three-peat.
Both Acadians squads emphasize a team-first mentality, aiming to blend their experienced veterans with talented newcomers from across the region as they compete to build on their impressive baseball legacy.
Kennebec Sturgeons Senior Legion Aiming for Rebound in 2025
GARDINER, Maine – The Kennebec Sturgeons, formerly known as the Dirigo Sturgeons, are prepared for a fresh start this summer at Morton Field. Under third-year head coach Steve Foard and assistants Randy Weston, Chris Blodgett, and Jason Madore, the team looks to bounce back from a challenging 2024 season.
Last year, inconsistent attendance impacted performance despite having a talented roster. For 2025, the Sturgeons have revamped their squad with 11 new faces joining an experienced core, expecting improved commitment and chemistry.
Key returning players include Hunter Foard (Erskine Academy ’24, Husson University), Kyle Palleschi (Monmouth ’24, Bard College), along with promising younger talent like Grady Hreben (Maranacook ’28) and Levi Laverdiere (Monmouth ’27).
With alumni currently competing collegiately at Husson, USM, CMCC, and UMA, the Sturgeons continue to develop quality players capable of competing at the next level.
The Sturgeons look forward to regaining their competitive edge and making a strong run into July.
Quirk Motor City Riverdogs Set Sights on Repeat in 2025
HAMPDEN, Maine – After capturing the 2024 Senior Legion state title, the Quirk Motor City Riverdogs—representing American Legion Post 213—return to Bordick Park in Hampden with their eyes firmly set on a championship repeat in 2025.
Led by coach Sam Economy and a veteran coaching staff that includes Connor Adams, Garrett McLeod, and Greg Lord, the Riverdogs boast a deep, experienced roster filled with returning contributors and collegiate-bound talent.
Key returners include Kaysen Wildman (Hampden Academy ’25), the 2025 KVAC Player of the Year, along with All-Conference First Team selection Bodie Bishop (Hampden Academy ’25, USM commit) and Andrew Cote (Hampden Academy ’25, Husson commit). Known for its strong player development, the program continues to produce college-level talent, with recent alumni competing at Clarion University, USM, SMCC, and Husson.
To honor the 100th anniversary of American Legion Baseball, the Riverdogs will host a commemorative opening ceremony in collaboration with Post 213.
With their championship pedigree and veteran leadership, Quirk Motor City enters the 2025 campaign as one of Maine’s top contenders.
Riverhawks Represent Future of Hampden Baseball
The Junior Legion affiliate, the Quirk Motor City Riverhawks—also representing Post 213—play out of Bordick Park and are guided by head coach Andy Newell. The Riverhawks feature a youthful roster of mostly Hampden Academy JV players, along with a pair of athletes from Hermon and one from John Bapst.
Rising contributors include Layton Shaw and Austin Haskell, both of whom batted over .300 at the JV level this spring. On the mound, Grady O’Roak and Ben Oliver are expected to lead the pitching staff as the team continues to grow and compete throughout the summer.
Though young, the Riverhawks are focused on development and building a strong foundation for the future of Hampden Legion Baseball.
Hight Skowhegan Legion Teams Set for Strong 2025 Campaign
SKOWHEGAN, Maine – Hight Skowhegan returns to Madison Area High School ready to compete at both Senior and Junior Legion levels in 2025, building on last year’s successes.
Senior Legion Squad Seeks Postseason Redemption
Under coach Russ McMahon, the Hight Skowhegan Senior Legion team finished last season at 11-8, highlighted by an impressive 16-1 victory over Franklin County in the zone tournament, before eventually falling to the same team in the state playoffs.
The Senior team brings back several key contributors, including standout hitter Jason Aubin (Skowhegan), who led his high school squad with a .372 average. On the mound, Noah McMahon (Skowhegan ’24), coming off his freshman season at USM, pairs with Silas Tibbetts (Skowhegan ’25), a KVAC Class A Second Team All-Conference selection, to anchor the rotation. Offensively, Trevor Austin (Skowhegan) adds pop after batting .365 with a home run, while Brady Gaw (Piscataquis ’26) brings speed and athleticism after hitting over .400 and swiping 35 bases.
Junior Legion Returns with Promising Young Talent
After a year away, Hight Skowhegan Junior Legion returns under the leadership of coaches Dan Frey, Rick York, and Ron Mayo. Young standouts Carter Nadeau and John Johnson, both of whom gained valuable varsity experience for Skowhegan High School, lead the roster. Nadeau logged 11 innings pitched and Johnson added nearly six innings on the mound, with both players seeing significant varsity at-bats.
Both Hight Skowhegan squads are prepared to make a strong statement this summer, showcasing depth, talent, and determination in Legion baseball.
Windham South Paw Post 148 Returns to Legion Baseball in 2025
WINDHAM, Maine – Windham South Paw Post 148 is making its return to Senior Legion baseball this summer, ready to represent the southernmost team in the league with talent from Windham, Lake Region, North Yarmouth Academy, and Fryeburg Academy.
Under the guidance of coaches Chris Doughty and Jeremy Gardiner, Windham fields a competitive roster highlighted by Brady Chappell (Fryeburg ’26), a hard-throwing pitcher who reaches mid-80s velocity. Braydan Wilson (Lake Region ’27) brings versatility after batting over .400 with 2 homers, 27 RBI, and adding 33 strikeouts on the mound. Shane Plummer (Lake Region ’27) also provides pitching depth, posting a 3-1 record with 36 strikeouts alongside a solid .302 batting average.
Gray Post 86 Warriors Ready for Senior Legion Debut
GRAY, Maine – Gray Post 86 Warriors advance to Senior Legion baseball for the first time in 2025, looking to build on a successful Junior Legion season last year that ended in the state semifinals.
Coached by Richard Flynn, Paul Larrivee, Fred Nevells, and Eric Richmond, the senior squad features proven contributors like Griffin Richmond (Gray-New Gloucester ’25, .396 avg, 12 RBI), Kaiden Chase (Gray-New Gloucester ’25, .357 avg, 8 RBI, 24 Ks in 28.1 innings), and Carter Davis (Gray-New Gloucester ’25, 14 RBI).
The Junior Warriors will continue developing talent, led by Landyn York and Nolan Larrivee, both of whom gained valuable varsity experience this spring at Gray-New Gloucester High School.
Boothbay’s 36ers Seek to Continue Legion Cinderella Story
BOOTHBAY, Maine – The 36ers Senior Legion team from Boothbay returns in 2025 after an inspiring postseason run last year, eager to build on their momentum playing out of Boothbay Region High School.
Coached by Adam Harkins, John Splaine, and Patrick Sanborn, the 36ers return a strong core led by standout arms Blake Grady (Lincoln Academy ’25, St. Joseph’s College commit), Hayden Chase (Erskine ’24, UMA), and Jacob Watkinson (Oceanside ’25). Grady and Watkinson were both named KVAC Class B First Team selections after racking up 55 and 85 strikeouts, respectively, this spring. At the plate, Sam Markowitz (Boothbay ’25, UMF commit) brings offensive firepower, hitting .348 with 2 home runs and 16 RBI during the high school season.
Bangor Dunkin’ Comrades Aim for Deeper State Tournament Run
BANGOR, Maine – After a strong 9-5 season in 2024, Bangor Dunkin’ Comrades return to Mansfield Stadium looking to advance further into the postseason despite losing key slugger Matt Holmes (Husson University).
Coaches Kobe Rogerson, Tanner Evans, Gavin Young, and Thomas True will lean on key returners, including outfielders Gavin Glanville-True (KVAC Class A Second Team) and Owen Glanville-True, along with catcher Zac Cota—all from Bangor and expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s success this summer.
Old Town-Orono Twins Eye Continued Legion Success
OLD TOWN, Maine – The Old Town-Orono Twins Senior Legion team returns in 2025, motivated to improve upon last year’s state tournament appearance, where they fell to the 36ers.
Led by coaches Adam Mahaney, David Brawn, and Shaun Tidwell, key players include Owen Harper (Mattanawcook Academy ’25, UMF commit) and catcher Noah Schaff (Orono), both poised for strong seasons.
The Junior Legion squad, coached by Adam Mahaney, Alex Tash, RJ Robertson, and Ryan Lincoln, also seeks continued success after last season’s appearance in the state finals. Notable players include Carter Osnoe (Old Town) and Noah White (Calais ’27), a dominant left-handed pitcher who recorded 20 strikeouts in a varsity game this spring.
Central Maine Hurricanes and Junior Legion Feeders Ready for 2025 Season
FAIRFIELD, Maine – The Central Maine Hurricanes, a newly formed Senior Legion team based out of Fairfield, are gearing up for their first season together, bringing together top talent from Messalonskee and Lawrence to compete at Coombs Field on the campus of Colby College.
Senior Hurricanes Look to Make Immediate Impact
Led by longtime Messalonskee baseball figure Ray Bernier Sr., along with coaches Jason Achorn and Rusty Mercier, the Hurricanes feature a competitive roster expected to contend right away.
Top returners include Ty Bernier (Messalonskee ’25, CMCC commit, KVAC Class A Second Team), a reliable left-handed bat who anchored the Eagles’ infield at shortstop, and Michael Achorn (Messalonskee ’25, Alfred State commit), a KVAC First Team selection who led the offense with a .458 average, 2 home runs, and 14 RBI.
This Senior Legion squad combines the strengths of the 2024 Fairfield and Messalonskee teams, forming a unified program with postseason aspirations.
Two Junior Legion Teams Power the Pipeline
Hammond Lumber Eagles
Based out of Messalonskee High School and coached by Kasen Sirois, the Hammond Lumber Eagles serve as the Junior Legion feeder for the Messalonskee area. With a roster full of young, local talent, the team hopes to develop strong fundamentals and stay competitive throughout the season.
Fairfield Junior Legion
The Fairfield Junior Legion team returns under third-year head coach Corey Pelletier, with new assistants Jevon Owens and Justin Moore. They’ll split home games between Lawrence High School and Colby College.
Key players include Dawson Moore (’26), Jack Pelletier (’27), Keenan McLain (’26), Kahl Bolster (’28), Hayden Lockhart (’28), and Jackson Dangler (’28) from Lawrence High School, as well as Ben Thomas (’27) from Winslow.
Coach Pelletier expects a summer of growth: “We have a good group with a healthy mix of younger and older players. I’m excited to see the development from this team throughout the Legion season.”
Together, the Central Maine Hurricanes and their two Junior Legion affiliates are building a strong foundation in the region, united by a shared commitment to player development and competitive baseball.
With new uniforms, opening ceremonies, veteran tributes, and expanded programs at all levels, Maine’s American Legion Baseball community is embracing its legacy while actively shaping its next chapter. From seasoned contenders aiming for Bangor to first-year teams finding their identity, the 2025 season promises high-level baseball, strong character development, and meaningful community engagement. As the centennial celebration unfolds, one thing is certain—Legion Baseball remains a proud, vital part of Maine’s baseball landscape.
About the Author
Aaron Goschke is a board member for Maine American Legion Baseball and the head coach and director of the Roderick-Crosby Post 28 Flyers, based in Farmington. A passionate advocate for growing American Legion Baseball in Maine, Goschke is deeply involved in player development and community baseball initiatives. He was also a contributor to the University of Maine at Farmington Athletics website, where he has written numerous features and recaps highlighting collegiate athletes and programs.