Meet the eight NSW players who are set to represent Team Australia at the WBSC Premier 12 in just under a week!
The WBSC Premier 12 competition is one of the most prestigious events in international baseball, bringing together the top 12 national teams from around the world. This year, Team Australia is set to compete on the global stage, and eight players with strong ties to Baseball NSW have been named to the roster. Their selection is a testament to the depth of talent developed within the state. Here’s a closer look at each of these exceptional athletes and their journey through the NSW baseball pathway.
Travis Bazzana:
Rising star, Travis Bazzana, has become a household name in Australian baseball. Having excelled in the U.S. collegiate system, Bazzana was the #1 pick in the 2024 MLB Draft and finished his season in High A with Cleveland Guardians affiliate, the Lake County Captains. His journey began in NSW, where he played for the Ryde Hawks and Ku-ring-gai Stealers. His time in the Baseball NSW High-Performance Program honed his skills and set him on a path to success. Bazzana will bring energy and a sharp batting eye to Team Australia’s lineup.
Tim Atherton:
Veteran pitcher Tim Atherton brings a wealth of experience to Team Australia. Having played for the Canterbury Vikings and currently the Sydney Blue Sox, Atherton’s roots in NSW baseball run deep. A star in the Australian Baseball League (ABL), Atherton has represented Australia on multiple occasions, showcasing his skill and composure on the mound. His leadership will be crucial as Australia faces off against the world’s best.
Josh Guyer:
Josh Guyer, another standout pitcher, has an impressive ABL career that spans over a decade. He has made an impact in the NSW State League with Blacktown Workers for many years. A reliable arm in high-pressure situations, his dedication and precision make him a key asset for Team Australia in the Premier 12.
Solomon Maguire:
Solomon Maguire represents the next generation of Australian baseball talent. A product of Baseball NSW’s development programs, he first showcased his potential with the Baulkham Hills Baseball Club in State League and Castle Hill Knights as a junior. Now playing professionally in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, Maguire’s speed and defensive prowess will be invaluable in the outfield during the Premier 12 campaign.
Todd Van Steensel:
Relief pitcher Todd Van Steensel is no stranger to international competition. Hailing from Ryde Hawks Baseball Club, Todd has carved out a successful career in the ABL and overseas. Known for his resilience and ability to thrive under pressure, Van Steensel’s experience will be a cornerstone of Australia’s bullpen strategy throughout the tournament.
Luke Wilkins:
Luke Wilkins, a seasoned pitcher, has been a stalwart of NSW baseball. His time with the Sydney Blue Sox and the Ryde Hawks in the NSW State League, cemented his reputation as a consistent and effective player. Wilkins’ will provide stability and depth to Team Australia’s pitching rotation as they take on their opponents.
Rixon Wingrove:
Power hitter Rixon Wingrove debuted for the Blue Sox in 2017 and signed a minor league contract with the Phildelphia Phillies in 2018. He has made waves in the Minor Leagues, currently in High A with the Minnesota Twins… but his journey started with NSW Country Baseball, Charlestown Phoenix and Baulkham Hills Baseball Club. Wingrove’s powerful swing and ability to drive in runs will be a significant boost for Team Australia’s offense. His experience in the U.S. minor leagues will serve him well as he faces international pitching.
Coen Wynne:
BNSW State Development Officer, Coen Wynne, represents a bright future of Australian baseball. Wynne developed his skills at NCAA Division I college, Grand Canyon University and plays in the ABL for the Sydney Blue Sox alongside Baulkham Hills Baseball Club in the NSW State League. Wynne spent many years advancing through Baseball NSW’s elite programs and now works for Baseball NSW to deliver these exact programs for our next generation of Australian baseballers. We look forward to what Wynne will bring to the world stage.
The inclusion of these eight players in Team Australia’s Premier 12 roster highlights the exceptional talent and development pathways fostered by Baseball NSW. Each player has made significant contributions to the sport, both locally and internationally. As they prepare to take on the world’s best, we congratulate them on their selection for Team Australia.
Team Australia will undoubtedly benefit from their skill and dedication. Best of luck to our players as they represent the green and gold at the WBSC Premier 12!
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