The first import to sign for 2026: Thibault Mercadier

Bonjour, Barn Nation! The first import has landed and it's a big one. From France to Fergie Jenkins, please welcome right-handed pitcher, THIBAULT MERCADIER, our first import signing for the 2026 season.
23 years old, hailing from Normandy, France, Thibault brings an impressive international résumé to the Barnstormers:
3x French National Team pitcher.
In 2019, he reached the French Div 1 (highest baseball level in France) at only 16 years old.
Pitched 2 years in the NJCAA for the Western Nebraska Cougars | 43.1 pitched innings, 39 batters struck out.
Member of the Quebec Capitales of the Frontier League in 2024.
Product of the Rouen Baseball Academy.
In 2025 with the Rouen Huskies, Thibault was dominant:
63.2 IP | 73 strikeouts
3.96 ERA | 1.28 WHIP
6 wins (3rd in league)
4th in strikeouts | 2nd in complete games
In the Series clinching game, Thibault pitched the final 4 innings, giving up only 1 ER while striking out a pair and on his final pitch, he got a ground ball 5-4-3 Double Play to earn the save and lead his Huskies to a League Championship.
Thibault brings a global edge, high-level experience and a fresh energy to the Barnstormers. This signing isn't just about filling a roster spot; it's about raising the standard and expanding the identity of Barnstormers baseball. Thibault represents the growing international reach of the CBL and the Barnstormers' commitment to bringing elite talent from everywhere to Chatham-Kent. Fans will quickly learn his name... and opponents will too.
Bienvenue à Chatham-Kent, Thibault!