Every season brings new stories, and for 2026 a group of familiar faces will be writing their next chapter in Storm Blue.
Several players who predominantly pulled on the Knights jersey in recent seasons will be “On The Move”, joining the Thunder for the upcoming campaign. It’s a shift that reflects what New Forest Baseball is all about — Growth, Community and Fun — with players stepping into new challenges while keeping the same club spirit that binds the ThunderKnights together.
Shaun Barrett – CF – #51
A dynamic presence in centre field, Shaun has been one of the Knights’ most electric players over the last two seasons. His 2025 numbers tell the story: a .467 average, a huge .690 OBP, and an eye-watering 18 stolen bases without being caught once.
Shaun’s speed and on-base ability make him a natural spark plug at the top of the order, and his move to the Thunder gives the team an immediate injection of pace and pressure on opposing defences.
Leigh Froud – CF / P – #8
A 2025 SWWBL All-Star, Leigh brings versatility, experience and plenty of personality to the Thunder roster. Equally comfortable roaming the outfield or taking the mound, he’s the kind of player every team needs: adaptable, committed, and always ready to step up.
At the plate, Leigh’s excellent on-base percentage shows his discipline and awareness, while his willingness to take on different roles highlights the Community spirit at the heart of the club — doing whatever the team needs, whenever it’s needed.
Lewis Kelly – 3B – #46
The 2024 Rookie of the Year and current GM, Lewis’ move is a significant one for 2026. A powerful bat and confident presence at third base, he’s posted outstanding numbers across his first two seasons, including a .421 average and 1.119 OPS in 2025.
Lewis represents Growth in its purest form — from rookie standout to club leader, and now stepping onto the Thunder roster to continue pushing his game forward while helping guide others along the way.
Ben Martin – 3B / LF – #69
Reliable and quietly effective, Ben adds depth and flexibility to the Thunder defence. Whether at third base or in left field, he brings steady hands, a team-first attitude and a knack for getting the job done without fuss.
His move is another reminder that Community is bigger than any single team name. Thunder or Knights, the badge stays the same — and players like Ben help keep that shared identity strong.
Ernesto Ramos – 2B – #73
A Venezuela native, Ernesto made an instant impression in limited action in 2025, hitting .500 with a 1.367 OPS. A right-handed second baseman with sharp instincts and infectious enthusiasm, he adds international flavour and exciting upside to the Thunder line-up.
Ernesto’s journey perfectly captures the Fun principle — bringing energy, passion and a love of the game that lifts everyone around him.
Simon Schwarz – C – #24
Simon had already played a chunk of the 2025 season as a Thunder player, but now makes the move permanent.
His catching skills behind the plate, as well his batting skills at it, make him another exciting addition to the Thunder roster. Si was the Knights Offensive Player of the Season in 2025 and will hope to bring more offensive prowess to Thunder in 2026.
One Club, Two Teams, Ready for 2026
While the jerseys for these players may be changing from forest green to storm blue, the philosophy stays the same. These moves aren’t about leaving one side behind; in fact there are a lot of new faces to be unveiled for the Knights this season.
Preparing for 2026 has been about strengthening both teams and continuing to build one connected ThunderKnights community.
Because no matter where our players line up on game day, they’re all still playing the New Forest way.