As the anticipation builds for the upcoming Cape Cod Baseball League (CCBL) All-Star Game at Guv Fuller Field on July 27, fans of the Falmouth Commodores have an extra reason to get excited. Some of the brightest stars in Major League Baseball once donned the Commodores jersey and showcased their talents in the CCBL All-Star Game. Let's take a look back at these standout players and see where their journeys have taken them.
A.J. Pollock - 2008 All-Star
A.J. Pollock's journey from the 2008 CCBL All-Star Game to the Major Leagues is quite an impressive one. Pollock's all-around skill was evident during his time with the Commodores, eventually earning him league MVP. Following his '08 run with the 'Dores, Pollock was a first-round pick in '09 and made his way to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Pollock enjoyed a successful career, including a 2015 All-Star selection and a 2020 World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Pollock now joins the Seattle Mariners as a volunteer assistant coach.
Kevin Newman - 2014 All-Star
Kevin Newman, a 2014 CCBL All-Star, was a longtime Commodore. He spent two summers in Falmouth, eventually securing his All-Star title in 2014. Newman’s impressive stint with the Commodores earned him a spot in the CCBL Hall of Fame in 2020. Newman has since established himself as a reliable infielder in the Majors, currently playing for the Arizona Diamondbacks, where his defensive skill and steady bat continue to impress.
Alec Bohm - 2017 All-Star
Alec Bohm's 2017 All-Star appearance was a precursor to his successful MLB career. Known for his powerful bat and smooth fielding at third base, Bohm's time with the Commodores was just a sneak peak of the skills that have made him a key player for the Philadelphia Phillies. He was named a starter in the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, and continues to shine during his impressive Major League career.
Brayden Taylor - 2021 All-Star
Brayden Taylor, a 2021 CCBL All-Star, captivated fans with his all-around talent. Taylor spent two summers in Falmouth, and in 2023 was drafted in the first round to the Tampa Bay Rays. Taylor has yet to make his Major League debut, but continues to impress in the Minors.
Travis Bazzana - 2023 All-Star
A familiar name, Travis Bazzana lit up Cape Cod during his time with the Commodores. Bazzana had a great All-Star Game, winning the Home Run Contest and eventually earning league MVP honors. Known for his versatility and dedication, Bazzana's performance in the All-Star Game was a glimpse of his future success. Bazzana was drafted first overall by the Cleveland Guardians just a few weeks ago, and baseball fans are eager to see what Bazzana can achieve during his Major League career.
Get ready for the next generation of stars
As we look forward to the CCBL All-Star Game at the Guv, it's exciting to remember the incredible talent that has passed through the Commodores. These players' journeys from summer ball to the grand stages of Major League Baseball serve as a reminder of why the CCBL is the premier collegiate summer league, and its role in making the stars of tomorrow shine tonight. Be sure to come out and support the next wave of All-Stars — you might just witness the beginning of the next great MLB career.
