The Canberra Cavalry is thrilled to announce our new Coach signings for the 2025/26 season!
As we gear up for another exciting year, we are proud to introduce a talented roster of athletes ready to bring their skills, passion, and dedication to the field. These new signings represent a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, all set to don the Cavalry colours and make their mark in our community.
Join us in welcoming these exceptional Coaches and players to our team and stay tuned for an action-packed season as we defend the ABL Championship title.
Jack Murphy
The Canberra Cavalry have appointed Jack Murphy as the team’s manager as they prepare for season 2025/26.
A fan-favourite and a crucial member of the Cavalry’s 2013 Claxton Shield-winning squad, Murphy returns to the capital with a winning pedigree and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the ABL. As the defending champions prepare for another season, Murphy’s leadership promises to bring both passion and experience to the Cavalry dugout.
Murphy played 163 regular-season games for Canberra starting in 2012. His 180 hits coming at an average of .295 included 20 HRs, but his place in Cavalry history was sealed in the 2013 Asia series, with a 2-run 10th inning bomb in the semi-final followed by an 8th inning grand slam in the final.
A three-time ABL All-Star, Murphy was just as reliable defensively, maintaining a catching fielding percentage above .980.
Currently working as a scout for the reigning MLB World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers, Murphy has signed on for the next two seasons.
“I’m extremely grateful to be part of the Cavalry organisation once again,” Murphy said from Florida, where he is currently based for MLB Spring Training. “I look forward to continuing the winning culture in Canberra and bringing more success to the club.”
Cavalry co-owner Paul Kelly stated “When we were looking for a new Manager, Jack’s excitement of having the opportunity to return to the Cavalry was something that made his appointment fairly easy. Jack had a great career when in Canberra and everyone loved him, so the combination of his history, great personality, baseball knowledge and connections will be a great asset as we enter next season as defending champions”
Murphy will travel to Canberra later this year and will be accompanied by his wife and 2 young children for the duration of the season.
Paul Fletcher
Paul Fletcher will be returning to the club as Assistant Coach for the upcoming 2024/25 Australian Baseball League (ABL) season. Fletcher, who served as the Cavalry’s pitching coach during the 2023/24 campaign, will arrive in September joining manager Jack Murphy to lead the defending champions.
Fletcher brings an impressive resume to the role, boasting over 25 years of professional baseball experience as a player, coach, and scout. As a former Major League pitcher, he played with the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and Pittsburgh Pirates before transitioning into coaching and scouting. Throughout his career, he has scouted for MLB organisations such as the San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Pittsburgh Pirates, signing more than 60 players—16 of whom reached the Major Leagues.
“I’m excited to be coming back to the Cavalry Fletcher said, “I love the organisation and hope to help keep the Claxton Shield in Canberra. I have a lot of love for the community and can’t wait for this opportunity.”
Fletcher has a proven track record of success, leading three teams to league championships in the US. Most recently, he managed the Glacier Range Riders in the Pioneer League, guiding them to the 2024 finals. His extensive experience in player development will be invaluable as he joins the team this season. Fletcher’s leadership will not only strengthen the pitching staff but also provide mentorship for up-and-coming players within the organisation through the Cavalry Academy and futures programs.
Stay posted for more announcements to come via
Facebook: Canberra Cavalry Facebook
Twitter: @CanberraCavalry
Instagram: @CanberraCavalry
