The St. Cloud Rox, a summer collegiate baseball franchise in the Northwoods League, have unveiled a seven‑player addition that will shape their 2026 roster. The moves come just weeks before the team’s season opener on May 25, when they travel to face Bismarck before returning to their home venue.
A Fresh Batch of Talent
Leading the influx is left‑handed pitcher Emerson McKnight, a University of Kansas alum who was ranked No. 32 among Texas pitchers by Perfect Game. His pedigree adds a respected arm to the rotation.
Also joining the staff is fellow left‑hander Isaiah Salas from the University of Missouri. In the 2026 season he posted a 4.60 ERA with 15 strikeouts over 15.2 innings, providing depth and reliability.
Freshman pitcher Braden Giardina arrives from Modesto Junior College, where he recorded a strikeout rate of 6.43 per game across seven appearances, signaling a promising future for the Rox.
Infielder Chris Tavarez, a standout from El Paso Community College and a top‑seven shortstop prospect in Puerto Rico for the 2024 graduating class, brings versatility and defensive skill to the lineup.
Right‑handed pitcher KJ Hart, who compiled 30 strikeouts in 26 innings at Northwest Florida State College this season, rounds out the pitching additions.
The roster also welcomes Aiden Mouton and Josiah Petersen, completing a seven‑player influx that the club hopes will translate into a competitive campaign.
Season Opener and Home Field
The Rox will open the season on Monday, May 25, traveling to Bismarck for their first game before returning to St. Cloud to play at Joe Faber Field, the venue that has hosted the team’s summer home games for years.
With a blend of college talent and summer‑league experience, the organization looks to build on its tradition of competitive play in the Northwoods League and energize the local fan base.