Team Ireland Impresses at U18 European Championship Qualifier

Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria — Team Ireland’s Junior National Team wrapped up an unforgettable week at the U18 European Baseball Championship Qualifier, finishing with a strong 3–2 record and showcasing grit, talent, and growth on the international stage.

The roster consisted of James Bentley, Cian Charnecki, Finn Corbett, Trajan Finarelli, Cian Fowler, Clodagh Gallahar Hall, Logan Hamalainen, Ronan Higgins, Ben Kent, Oliver Lee, Alex Lucas Turczyn, Nathan O’Neill, Finn O’Rourke, Noah Pinto, Nathan Roach, Conor Sims, Isaiah Smith, Josh Suda, and Liam Tannam.

Over the course of five games in five days, this young Irish squad proved they belonged among Europe’s rising baseball nations — notching victories over Turkey, Bulgaria, and Croatia, while narrowly falling to group heavyweights Slovakia and Hungary.

Game-by-Game Recap

Ireland 17 – 1 Bulgaria

A powerful performance saw Ireland dominate the host nation. Isaiah Smith threw 4.0 strong innings (1 ER, 3 BB, 4 K) and helped his own cause at the plate. Cian Fowler had 4 RBIs, while Ben Kent, Logan Hamalainen, Josh Suda, and Oliver Lee all contributed in a true team win.

Ireland 12 – 2 Turkey

Joshua Suda was outstanding on the mound, striking out 13 over 5 innings. Lucas Turczyn drove in 3 runs, and seven different Irish batters recorded RBIs. The team’s speed and discipline at the plate kept pressure on Turkey throughout.

Ireland 5 – 3 Croatia

In a tough, tactical contest, Ireland edged Croatia thanks to timely hitting and solid pitching. Ben Kent had a clutch day at the plate with a double and 3 RBIs. Starter Finn O’Rourke battled through 108 pitches to keep Ireland in control, and Isaiah Smith closed the door with 21 strikes in 25 pitches.

Slovakia 16 – 13 Ireland

Ireland came out swinging in a wild slugfest. Isaiah Smith had 2 triples, 3 RBIs and a stolen base. Cian Fowler and Ben Kent also produced at the plate. Despite a late push, Slovakia held on in what was arguably the most thrilling game of the tournament.

Hungary 11 – 1 Ireland

In their toughest test, Ireland couldn’t overcome the eventual tournament champions. Despite flashes of offensive pressure, Hungary’s pitching and defense proved too much. The highlight of the game, however, was a massive home run by Cian Fowler.

Standout Performers

• Nathan O’Neill led the team with 9 runs scored and 3 stolen bases.

• Isaiah Smith was a true two-way threat: 8 runs, 2 triples, 4 RBIs, and lights-out relief appearances.

•Cian Fowler drove in 7 runs and had a strong presence in the heart of the order.

•Ben Kent delivered 5 RBIs, 2 doubles, and drew key walks in multiple games.

•Josh Suda not only dominated on the mound but added 2 RBIs and 4 hits at the plate.

A Team to Believe In

From the pre-tournament preparations to the final pitch, this group of young athletes represented Ireland with pride, passion, and purpose. The week also highlighted the power of teamwork — with contributions from every corner of the roster and a coaching staff that kept the group focused and motivated.

Baseball Ireland would like to thank the tournament organizers, volunteers, families, supporters, and especially the coaching staff (Sean Mitchell, David Fantin, and Juan Lucas Galan) and players who made this journey so meaningful.

We can’t wait to see what this group does next.

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WBSC page for the U18 https://www.wbsceurope.org/en/events/u18eurobaseball25-B-Pool-BUL/home