The Olean Oilers are a collegiate summer baseball team based in Olean, New York, competing in the New York Collegiate Baseball League (NYCBL). This league provides an important opportunity for college baseball players to continue playing competitively during the summer months, allowing them to improve their skills and maintain their form between spring college seasons. The Oilers have become a staple in the community, offering local fans a chance to watch talented college athletes in action at Bradner Stadium, their home field.
The Olean Oilers roster typically includes players from various colleges, with a special emphasis on recruiting local talent to connect with the community. For the 2025 season, the team features key local players such as Jaxson Ross from Salamanca, who is returning after completing his freshman year at St. Bonaventure University. Thomas Bates, a 2023 graduate of Olean High School, also brings strong local ties and experience to the team. These players bring excitement and draw fans who want to support athletes from their own region.
Alongside Ross and Bates, other notable players include Owen Smith, another St. Bonaventure athlete, and Bryce Neely, an incoming freshman from the University of Virginia. Neely, who will play center field, is known for his speed and powerful batting ability. Early practices and exhibition games have shown that Neely is already making a strong impression with his ability to hit the ball hard to the center field wall. The Oilers are hopeful that such talents will help create a competitive edge this summer.
The team’s infield remains one of its strongest assets, with all four starters from the previous season returning. Players like Josh Wilson and Chase Fischer are expected to anchor the infield with their quickness and reliability. Fischer stands out for his strong batting skills and excellent control at the plate, making him a key player to watch throughout the season. The infield’s consistency provides a solid foundation for the Oilers, complementing the team’s overall strategy on defense and offense.
Pitching is another important aspect of the Oilers’ game plan. The team’s pitching staff includes players like Jaxson Ross, Brendan Roche, and Louis Arreola. Early practices and exhibition games have indicated that these pitchers are performing well and could play a critical role in the team’s success. Sharing time at second base during exhibition games were Alex Myers and Thomas Bates, showing the coaching staff’s flexibility and depth in the roster.
The Olean Oilers’ coaching staff is led by co-head coaches Jackson DeJohn and Jake Meeker. DeJohn serves as a student assistant coach from St. Bonaventure University, while Meeker comes from St. Marys. Together, they bring a blend of college-level coaching experience and fresh perspectives to the team. Their guidance is essential in helping the Oilers build team chemistry, especially given the number of new players on the roster this season. Early exhibitions have already shown signs of promising coordination and teamwork.
Bradner Stadium, the home field of the Olean Oilers, plays a vital role as a community gathering place. It allows local fans to enjoy high-quality baseball and support young athletes who may one day progress to professional careers. The stadium’s connection to the team and the town enhances the experience for fans, who often feel a strong bond with players like Ross and Bates. These local players add a layer of excitement and pride to the Oilers’ games.
The New York Collegiate Baseball League itself serves as a crucial stepping stone for many players who aspire to play professionally. By competing in the NYCBL, athletes gain valuable experience against strong competition, which helps them prepare for the next level of their careers. The league also helps foster baseball talent in the region, drawing attention from scouts and baseball enthusiasts alike.
The Olean Oilers aim to compete at a high level this summer, showcasing well-rounded play that highlights both individual talent and team effort. Fans can expect to see a team focused on playing solid baseball while representing the Olean community with pride. The Oilers’ commitment to developing players and engaging with local supporters makes them a noteworthy presence in the collegiate summer baseball landscape.
For residents and baseball fans in the area, following the Oilers during the summer months offers an exciting chance to watch rising stars and enjoy competitive baseball close to home. With a roster full of skilled players and dedicated coaches, the Olean Oilers look forward to making the 2025 season one to remember.
