Andy Groening returns for 2026

The Chatham-Kent Barnstormers are excited to announce the return of right-handed slugger Andy Groening for the 2026 season.
Groening joined the Barnstormers shortly after the All-Star break in 2025 and wasted little time showing he belonged. The 6’2”, 222-pound hitter finished the year with a .265 average and an impressive .842 OPS, launching three home runs, including one in the playoffs.
At just 19 years old, Groening holds the distinction of being the youngest player signed in the Canadian Baseball League. The rising star is currently playing for the NorthArk Pioneers in the NJCAA, where he’s already posting an .883 OPS through his first 11 games.
But Barnstormers fans will remember exactly when Andy truly introduced himself to Chatham-Kent.
On August 3rd, in just his fourth game with the team, Groening erupted for a monster performance: going 3-for-5 with four runs scored, four RBIs and two mammoth home runs to power the Barnstormers to a 14–4 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. The unforgettable showing earned him CBL Player of the Week honors and instantly made him a fan favourite.
Welcome back to the Barn, Andy!