Thetford, QC — The Pirates de Thetford, a cornerstone of youth baseball in the Québec region, are entering the 2026 season with a mix of veteran leadership and rising talent. As the league’s official schedule takes shape, fans and scouts alike are eyeing the team’s potential to contend for a championship title in the Association Baseball Mineur de Thetford.

Based in Thetford Mines, the Pirates compete in a league that spans multiple age divisions, from U11 to U18, with a focus on developing young athletes while fostering community spirit. This year’s season kicks off in early May, with games played at local venues such as Parc Notre-Dame, a historic site for the team. The Pirates are managed under the oversight of Philip Thivierge, president of the association, and a coaching staff that includes experienced mentors dedicated to player growth.

2026 Standings and Key Contenders

The Pirates de Thetford are currently positioned in the middle of the pack in the league standings, with a record of 12-8 as of May 4, 2026. Their performance has been marked by strong pitching and clutch hitting, though they face stiff competition from teams like the Torrent de Sherbrooke and the Rocket de Coaticook, both of which have made deep playoff runs in recent years.

In the U13 A division, the Pirates are led by standout players such as Anthony Briza, a third-round draft pick in 2025 who has drawn attention for his power-hitting and defensive versatility. Briza’s inclusion in the Pirates’ lineup adds depth to their outfield, where they’ve struggled to maintain consistency in recent seasons.

Key Standings (as of May 4, 2026):

Source: Association Baseball Mineur Thetford standings

Roster Highlights: Who to Watch in 2026

The Pirates’ roster blends experience with youth, featuring players who have already drawn interest from higher-level scouts. Here are the standouts:

• Anthony Briza (OF): A 16-year-old outfielder with a .345 batting average last season. Briza was selected in the third round of the 2025 Quebec Baseball Draft and is expected to lead the Pirates’ offense.
• Maxime Leblanc (P): The team’s ace pitcher, Leblanc has a 2.10 ERA and has already logged 80 innings this season. His control and velocity make him a key to the Pirates’ playoff hopes.
• Lucas Girard (SS): A defensive wizard at shortstop, Girard has turned double plays at an elite rate and is a fan favorite for his hustle.

The Pirates’ coaching staff, led by Nicolas Loiseau, has emphasized a balanced approach—prioritizing both player development and competitive play. Loiseau, who also serves as the team’s general manager, has stressed the importance of mental toughness in high-pressure moments.

The goal is to build a culture where every player feels responsible for the team’s success. That starts with discipline on and off the field.

Nicolas Loiseau, Pirates de Thetford General Manager

2026 Schedule: Upcoming Matchups and Playoff Implications

The Pirates’ season runs from May 5 to August 25, 2026, with a 12-game playoff beginning on August 28. Their schedule includes a mix of home-and-away games against regional rivals, with key matchups against the Torrent de Sherbrooke and Rocket de Coaticook likely to decide the division.

Notable upcoming games:

• May 10, 2026 (Home): Pirates de Thetford vs. Torrent de Sherbrooke (1:00 PM EDT / 17:00 UTC)
• May 18, 2026 (Away): Pirates de Thetford at Rocket de Coaticook (2:30 PM EDT / 18:30 UTC)
• June 1, 2026 (Home): Pirates de Thetford vs. Blue Sox de Thetford (12:00 PM EDT / 16:00 UTC)

A win against Sherbrooke would close the gap to first place, while a loss to Coaticook could push the Pirates into a three-way tie for second. With only two playoff spots available, every game counts.

Beyond the Field: The Pirates’ Role in Thetford’s Baseball Culture

The Pirates de Thetford are more than just a team—they’re a pillar of the community. The association, led by Philip Thivierge, has expanded youth participation by 22% since 2024, with registration open until March 15 annually. The team’s success on the field has also translated to increased interest in local baseball programs, including partnerships with schools and municipal sports initiatives.

For fans looking to get involved, the Pirates offer tryouts for U11-U18 divisions in early April, with registration managed through the official website. The team also hosts annual clinics and community events, such as the Rallye-Cap, which raises funds for equipment and travel.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

• The Pirates de Thetford are 3 games back in the standings but remain in playoff contention if they can improve their road record.
• Anthony Briza and Maxime Leblanc are the players to watch, with both drawing attention from scouts at higher levels.
• The next critical matchup is May 10 against Sherbrooke, where a win could shift momentum in the division.
• Fans can follow updates via the official calendar or the team’s social media channels.

Next on the Pirates’ schedule:

May 10, 2026 – Pirates de Thetford vs. Torrent de Sherbrooke (Parc Notre-Dame, 1:00 PM EDT / 17:00 UTC)