The Frontier League’s 16th franchise, located in Brockton, Massachusetts, has announced that the franchise has been acquired by Brockton Sox, LLC and will rebrand to the historic and beloved Brockton Rox name for the 2025 season. The new ownership group is highlighted by Boston Red Sox legend and Hall-of-Famer, Jim Rice.
The Brockton professional baseball franchise began as the Rox at Campanelli Stadium in 2002 as a member of the Can-Am League of Professional Baseball. Last year during its inaugural Frontier League season, the franchise played as the New England Knockouts. As a professional team, they have hosted dozens of professional stars (including current Field Manager Jerod Edmondson) and were an annual league leader in attendance.
Rice was an 8-time MLB All-Star, 1978 American League MVP and multiple Silver Slugger/Gold Glove Award winner who was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009. He is currently a commentator on New England Sports Network (NESN), the top-rated regional sports network that broadcasts live sports, original content, and award-winning coverage of the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins. “I am very excited to be part of the Brockton Rox ownership group,” Rice expressed. “As a Massachusetts resident, I am thrilled to be part of a professional baseball organization in my own backyard.”
Rice also added the importance of giving back to the next generation of baseball, bringing the Rox together with the countless youth programs in the area. During his time with the Red Sox, Rice was named as an honorary chairman of the Jimmy Fund in 1979, eventually being bestowed with the “Jimmy Award” for his outstanding contributions. His desire to give back has grown exponentially, now stretching to Southeastern Massachusetts.
“Having legendary Red Sox player, eight-time American League All-Star, and Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Rice join our community is not only incredibly exciting, but also a perfect fit for our “City of Champions,” said Brockton Mayor Robert Sullivan.
Rice’s partners with the Rox are Bill and Rob Janetschek and Shawn Reilly. Reilly was a co-founder of the New York Boulders-now entering their 15th year of operation- where he is partners with Rob Janetschek. Bill Janetschek has been a contributing owner in several minor league franchises, most prominently with the Greenville Drive (Boston Red Sox, Single A) and Salem Red Sox (Boston Red Sox, High A). The retired Chief Financial Officer at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co, his legacy in baseball stretches into Cooperstown, contributing to the “Whole New Ballgame” exhibit in honor of his father, Bill Sr.
“We’re excited to now be a part of the great history of Brockton Rox baseball,” Team President Shawn Reilly expressed. “I remember when the Boulders came to Campanelli Stadium during our Cam-Am League days. The stadium was constantly full with a great atmosphere and was the toughest place to play in the League. We are certain that we will return that excitement to the fans of professional baseball in Southeastern Massachusetts..”
“I’m excited to go back to the name and history within the Brockton Rox,” Field Manager Edmondson stated. “When I was here, it was the height of Campanelli Stadium and this amazing fan base. I’m thrilled to get going again under this new chapter and hopefully bring back a championship.”
The rebrand is highlighted by a revamped Rox logo. The crest was first introduced in 2011 and incorporates the gloves of Brockton’s rich boxing history. Secondary marks include a refreshed type font and a commemorative “Revival Season” logo. K.O. will also return to Campanelli Stadium as Brockton’s mascot.
“The decision to re-name our Frontier League professional baseball team the Brockton Rox is a true tribute to our city’s rich sports history,” Mayor Sullivan added. “I am deeply grateful to the League and the Ownership group for their commitment to Brockton and beyond. With great anticipation, I look forward to what lies ahead for our hometown team and the lasting impact this will have on our City’s future.”
“We will be spending a good amount of effort focusing on getting the younger generation involved in baseball through baseball camps, school trips, camp days and community outreach in the Brockton area. I look forward to seeing you all on Opening Day on May 16th.” Rice said.
The Rox revival at Campanelli Stadium begins on Friday, May 16th against the New York Boulders. Fans can now purchase season ticket memberships by calling the Rox front office at (508) 559-7000 or by visiting www.brocktonrox.com.
About the Brockton Rox:
The Brockton Rox are a professional baseball team in the MLB-partnered Frontier League. The Rox are the 16th franchise of the Frontier League, officially being awarded membership in the fall of 2023. Brockton began professional play in 2002 under the former Can-Am League. The Rox play at Campanelli Stadium, located in Brockton, Massachusetts. Fans and other members of the media can stay up-to-date with all Rox content through their social media channels @BrocktonRox.