University of Dayton has announced its 2027 baseball roster, a blend of eight freshmen and nine transfers that aims to reinforce the program’s recent momentum. Head coach Jayson King, who has overseen the team for several seasons, emphasized that the new class was selected not only for athletic promise but also for the diverse experiences they bring.
The roster reflects a deliberate strategy to mix youth with proven experience, as King noted that the team will lean on both emerging talent and returning veterans. This approach is designed to maintain competitiveness within the Atlantic 10 Conference and beyond.
A global mix of talent
Four players arrive from abroad, representing Canada, the Czech Republic, the Dominican Republic and New Zealand. Their backgrounds add a rich cultural dimension to the clubhouse and bring varied baseball traditions that complement the existing American talent.
Among the newcomers, Tait Anderson from New Zealand was named NJCAA Region Nine Pitcher of the Year and earned NJCAA All‑American Second Team honors. Johnny Escobalez Jr., a former standout at Mississippi Valley State, impressed with a five‑strikeout performance in 4.2 innings and contributed 13 runs. Logan Forgie, recognized with All‑New England and All‑Independent School League honors, and Dillon Hartman, a Gonzaga‑Whitworth transfer who posted an 8‑1 record at Whitworth, round out a pitching staff that already shows promise.
Position players also bring impressive credentials. Alex Kvasnicka was crowned Pioneer Male Athlete of the Year and earned ISCC All‑Conference First Team honors, while Braydon Johnson and Nicholas Roca collected All‑Conference and All‑State recognitions. Nicholas Roca set school records in doubles and stolen bases, earning All‑Dade First Team accolades. Additional standouts include Braylon Mitchell, Nolan Orzechowski, Kevin Ramos, Niles Redrick, Jake Rizzo, Hudson Stewart, Travis Stroh, Sawyer Tolk and Ondrej Vank, each of whom has logged notable achievements in high school or junior‑college competition.
The returning core includes Atlantic 10 All‑Rookie team member Colin Lynch and weekly award winners Grayson Carpenter, John Delgado, Martin Howell and Bobby Stang. Their experience, combined with the new additions, creates a balanced squad poised to contend in the upcoming schedule.
With a lineup that blends international flair, award‑winning talent and a strong developmental pipeline, the Flyers look to build on recent successes and make a deep run in the 2027 season. Head coach Jayson King expressed confidence that the team’s diverse strengths will translate into competitive performances on the field.