The Owensboro Post 9 Bombers are preparing for another summer of American Legion baseball as one of Kentucky’s most successful programs opens its 2026 season with championship aspirations and a new home field in Whitesville.
Head coach Matt Freeman said excitement is high as the Bombers begin a new campaign after capturing five consecutive state championships.
“We’re looking forward to another really fun season with Bombers baseball, and we hope that we continue to represent our post and the area in a fashion that they’ve become accustomed to,” Freeman said.
The Bombers will play their home games this summer at Whitesville Community Park. Team officials expressed gratitude to Trinity High School and the City of Whitesville for helping make the season possible.
Freeman said the team is excited about the opportunity to play at the facility.
“We are just super excited to be able to go out there and play baseball at their park,” he said.
Founded in the late 1930s by the James L. Yates American Legion Post 9, the Bombers have been a staple of the local baseball community for decades. The program has won 17 state championships and has featured more than 1,500 players throughout its history.
Program president Larry Vanover, an Owensboro native and former Major League Baseball umpire, said the organization remains committed to providing high-level opportunities for local players.
“Here we are, five state championships in a row,” Vanover said. “It’s right where I want to be right now.”
This season’s roster includes 18 players from across the region, representing Owensboro, Daviess County, Apollo, Owensboro Catholic, Ohio County, McLean County, Muhlenberg County, Hancock County, Grayson County, and Bowling Green high schools.
The senior class includes Eli Hampton of Owensboro, Eli Hatfield of Ohio County, Nolan Johnson of Daviess County, Gage Napier of Grayson County, Ryleigh Logan of Apollo, Corbin Martin of McLean County, Gentry Atwell of Owensboro Catholic, and Porter Hay of Hancock County.
Returning underclassmen include Jake Murphy and Myles Grant of Owensboro Catholic, Jagger Pate of Apollo, and Jude Evans of Owensboro Catholic. The roster also features several recent high school graduates who have committed to continue their careers at the collegiate level, including Brody Brubaker, Markell Yates, Colton Carver, Brodie Tucker, Brett Poole, and Brady Benjamin.
Freeman said the team’s goals remain unchanged despite the new surroundings.
The veteran coach, who is entering his 11th season with the Bombers, said the program hopes to win its area schedule, advance through regional competition and contend for a national title.
He credited the players’ work ethic, athletic ability and leadership for the program’s sustained success.
Vanover said that success is made possible by continued support from American Legion Post 9, sponsors and volunteers who help operate the program each summer.
“Over the years, the veterans and the American Legion organization have sponsored, paid for, set up, and been involved with a place for young people to go play very top-notch caliber baseball,” Vanover said.
Beyond the field, Bombers players participate in community events throughout the year, including the Owensboro-Daviess County Christmas Parade and Memorial Day activities honoring veterans.
“It’s a testament to the James L. Yates Post 9 Legion Hall and their commitment to youth in our community,” Freeman said. “We’re hoping the great supporters that we have will continue to come out and support us.”
The Bombers opened their season against Evansville Funkhouser in Mount Vernon, Indiana, on Tuesday, and will spend the summer pursuing another state championship and a return to national competition.
Find the team’s full schedule here.
