From Major League Hall of Famers to New Forest Rookies, baseball has a way of connecting people. Here we’ve paired up a few ThunderKnights with their MLB namesakes to see if there’s more that links them than just their names. These MLB stars might have played under brighter lights, but the spirit, and the names, feel right at home here in heart of the Forest.
Merrill Kelly’s rise to the majors is one of perseverance. After several years pitching in Korea, he debuted for Arizona at 30 and quickly became a cornerstone of their rotation. His story is a reminder that consistency and commitment can open big-league doors.
New Forest’s Lewis Kelly knows that feeling. The 2024 Rookie of the Year made his pitching debut in 2025 while also co-managing the Knights, and now his commitment to the cause has lead him to the role of General Manager for 2026. His steady leadership and work ethic mirror his MLB counterpart’s in proving that determination travels well, no matter the level.
A right-handed reliever from the Mets’ early days in the 1960’s, Darrell Sutherland was known for his reliability and calm presence on the mound. He was often one of the most dependable players, carving out a solid role as a reliever for the Mets and the Indians.
Doug Sutherland (a lifelong Mets fan) brings that same presence to the Thunder. A 2025 All-Star and the newly appointed Thunder manager for 2026, Doug’s easygoing style and deep baseball knowledge make him a trusted leader and the steady hand guiding the club’s next chapter.
Ted Williams remains one of baseball’s most revered hitters, combining science, skill, and swagger. A lifelong Red Sox legend and two-time MVP, he famously served as a fighter pilot in both World War II and the Korean War; then returned to baseball without missing a beat. Simply put: “The Kid” could do it all.
That same spirit runs through Sam Williams, affectionately nicknamed “Slam.” A consistent offensive threat and a 2023 All-Star, Sam delivered one of the most memorable moments in Knights history. As manager he subbed himself into a game against arch rivals Bournemouth with the team trailing in the final inning, then preceded to hit a walk-off grand slam. Like his legendary namesake, Williams brings both power and poise to the plate.
A hard-nosed third baseman who played for several clubs, Ray Knight’s shining moment came in the 1986 World Series with the Mets, where he earned MVP honours for his clutch hitting and fiery leadership. The kind of player every dugout needs; gritty, determined, and unafraid to get his uniform dirty.
James Knight will take on a leadership role of his own this season as co-manager of the Knights for 2026. Focused, composed, and respected by teammates, he brings the same combination of accountability and quiet confidence that defined his MLB counterpart.
A modern fan favourite, Steven Kwan is known for his speed, sharp instincts, and incredible ability to make contact at the plate. With a throwback playing style and a focus on fundamentals, he’s quickly become a symbol of smart, team-first baseball; a perfect modern example of consistency and heart.
Ivan Kwan brings that same textbook reliability to the New Forest lineup. Known for his consistency and attention to detail, he’s the kind of player every team needs; calm, prepared, and steady in any situation.
Marty Barrett was the kind of player who made good teams better. An underrated part of the Red Sox of the ’80s, the second baseman was known for his consistency, sharp defence, and smart situational hitting. His standout performance in the 1986 postseason cemented his place in Boston baseball lore as the definition of reliable.
Shaun Barrett has earned a similar reputation for New Forest. A sharp outfielder with dependable defence and a knack for getting on base, he’s regularly among the club’s stolen base leaders. Like his namesake, his reliability makes him one of the team’s most valuable everyday players.
Before his executive days in Boston, Haywood Sullivan built his career behind the plate; a cerebral catcher with leadership qualities that extended well beyond the field. His career spanned decades in baseball, both on and off the field, showing how a love for the game can take many different forms.
Mitch Sullivan continues that catching legacy for the ThunderKnights. Known for his deep understanding of the game and strong communication with pitchers, he’s the kind of presence every rotation wants behind the mask; smart, steady, and respected.
A promising young talent in the Angels’ system, Christian Moore represents the new wave of athletic, multi-skilled players coming through the ranks. He’s adaptable, confident, and ready for any role. Still early in his professional journey, he’s one to watch for fans who love seeing the next generation rise.
Andy Moore has shown his adaptability and ability to fill any role since New Forest Baseball’s founding. A 2023 All-Star and General Manager from 2022 through 2025, he’s contributed at every level; pitching at Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A over the last three years. His hard work off the field has established the club and has been fundamental in establishing Gang Warily as the clubs home. His versatility has been central to the ThunderKnights’ growth and success.
A left-hander for the California Angels in the early ’90s, Hilly Hathaway was known for his smooth delivery and calm poise under pressure — the kind of pitcher who never seemed rattled, no matter the situation.
Rozi Hathaway brings that same steady presence to the Knights. She plays with composure and focus, anchoring the team with a quiet confidence that mirrors her Major League namesake.
Billy Martin made his name as a fiery second baseman and one of baseball’s most colourful managers, known for his competitiveness and sheer will to win.
Ben Martin showed that same spark in his rookie season with New Forest Baseball in 2025. His energy and intensity made an instant impact on the club — a player who, much like the Yankees legend, leaves everything on the field every time he suits up.
A right-handed hurler for the Yankees in the 1930s and ’40s, Atley Donald was one of the fastest throwers of his day — a determined competitor whose work ethic earned him six straight double-digit win seasons.
Eddie Donald follows suit, also a right-handed pitcher who thrives on hard work and precision. Whether on the mound or behind the plate, his focus and discipline make him one of the ThunderKnights’ most dependable performers.
Part of the Philadelphia Athletics’ famed “$100,000 Infield,” Jack Barry was a cerebral shortstop and team leader who later turned to coaching, known for his sharp baseball mind and leadership.
Bryan Barry carries a similar legacy of wisdom and experience. A steady presence in the ThunderKnights lineup, he brings leadership, composure, and a deep understanding of the game. Like his namesake, he’s proof that smart baseball and strong character are always valuable on the field.
Our ThunderKnights might not be pros, but they’ve got the same passion, pride, and love for the game as their MLB counterparts. So next time you spot a familiar name in a pack of baseball cards, remember their New Forest namesake is keeping that big league spirit alive right here at home.
And if your surname is Ohtani, Judge, Bonds, Di Maggio, or Ruth… maybe you too could be a ThunderKnight!
