BAL News
Breakthrough or Rebuild? Two BWAL Franchises Enter a Defining Season
The Cherrypickers chase their first championship while the Dragons fight to avoid a full rebuild.
August 25, 2026
The Cherrypickers and Dragons enter the new BWAL season in very different positions—but both franchises are running out of patience.
For the Cherrypickers, the question remains the same: Is this finally the year?
They have reached the playoffs in all three seasons. They have also been eliminated in the semifinals all three times.
Last season appeared to offer their best opportunity yet. The Cherrypickers featured one of the league's most productive offenses, led by Dylan Atkinson, who finished with 18 runs, 20 RBIs and three home runs. KJ Myers added 15 runs, 15 hits and a league-leading 23 walks, while Zach Donaldson contributed 16 RBIs.
Despite all that production, the season once again ended against the 8 Balls, this time in an 8–3 semifinal loss.
The Cherrypickers are no longer simply an up-and-coming team. Their core has produced enough to expect more. At some point, regular-season promise must become postseason success.
Their offseason could become even more complicated if the 8 Balls intensify their interest in Brad Atkinson. Brad's departure would remove another two-way option from a roster trying to reach its first championship.
The Dragons face a different reality.
After appearing in each of the first two BWAL championship games—and winning the inaugural title—the Dragons collapsed to a 1–5–1 regular-season record last year. Their season ended with a 9–1 semifinal loss against the Titans.
Now, a rebuild may be unavoidable.
There are still pieces to build around. Alex Kukic recorded 16 hits and 12 runs last season. Will Byler added 17 hits and three home runs while contributing 64 pitching strikeouts. Jack Brennan also provided 11 hits, nine RBIs and two home runs in six games.
But the Dragons are no longer the league's unquestioned standard. After two championship appearances, they watched the 8 Balls reach a third straight final and the Titans take control of the league.
The Cherrypickers are trying to break through.
The Dragons are trying to avoid falling further behind.
For both teams, the fourth BWAL season could determine the direction of the entire franchise.
THE FEED
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