After a 2025 campaign that showcased offensive firepower and valuable growth, Fulton-Montgomery baseball enters the 2026 season with a deeper and more experienced roster.
The Raiders finished last season with a 14-16 record, producing one of the more dynamic offenses in the region. Fulton-Montgomery hit an impressive .307 as a team, scoring 214 runs across 30 games while posting a strong .432 on-base percentage. The lineup consistently applied pressure, totaling 235 hits and 59 extra-base hits, proving its ability to generate offense in a variety of ways.
Leading the way is sophomore Cheng En Cai, who not only anchors the pitching staff but also returns as one of the team's top hitters after batting an eye-catching .408 with 29 RBIs.
Behind him, Kao Huai En (.346 AVG, .500 OBP) and Isamu Shikama (.314 AVG) provide stability in the middle of the lineup, while Soichiro Hanawa brings speed and production after scoring a team-high 30 runs and hitting .330 as a freshman.
Veteran presence continues with Brendan O'Connell and KJ Constantino, while a new wave of freshmen—including Jake Morin, Christian LaFleche, and Wataru Yamasaki—adds depth and versatility across the field.
On the mound, the Raiders will look to take a step forward after posting a 7.92 team ERA last season. Sophomore arms like Connor Bentley (3-2, 26 strikeouts) and Po Ting Lin (3 wins, 28 strikeouts) return with experience, while Cai also logged significant innings with 37 strikeouts.
The 2026 schedule presents plenty of opportunities to make a statement. After a postponed season opener on Saturday, the Raiders will begin on the road against Hudson Valley Community College on Sunday, March 22nd before facing Cayuga, Jefferson, and Herkimer.
A critical stretch in April—featuring SUNY Broome and SUNY Adirondack—will help shape the playoff picture, leading into a regular season finale against Mohawk Valley that could carry postseason implications.
With a roster that blends international talent with a strong local core, the Raiders bring a unique identity into the season. More importantly, they bring experience, depth, and a lineup capable of competing with anyone in the region.
