Intercounty Baseball League rebrands as Canadian Baseball League

For the first time in more than a century, the Intercounty Baseball League has a new name becoming the Canadian Baseball League.

It’s a new era for professional baseball in Simcoe County.

For the first time in more than a century, the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) has a new name becoming the Canadian Baseball League (CBL)—a fully professional league.

“We’re very excited. You know, it’s something that probably could have been done some time ago based on the talent in this league,” said Ted Kalnins, CBL Commissioner. ”But we’ve taken our time to make sure it happens when we’re well planned for and we’re confident that it’s the right time now.”

Monday’s announcement comes after the league reported a record attendance of nearly a quarter of a million fans this past summer.

On the field, 64 players with both major league and minor league experience suited up including Frank Garces and Willy Garcia on the Barrie Baycats—as well as All-Star and World Series Champion Fernando Rodney and Liam Hicks—who played in 119 games for the Miami Marlins this past summer.

“The biggest change is that it’s going to provide a lot of clarity for people that we’re Canada’s best baseball league, and the name will reflect that as well,” continued Kalnins.

New in 2026, includes going from a 42-game to a 48-game regular season. There are only five teams qualifying for the playoffs and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) players losing eligibility.

“We’re expanding the footprint of baseball in the country. But, it also means you can watch Canadian baseball in other countries. It’s really going to put us on the map,” said Josh Matlow, the Barrie Baycats president, GM, and manager.

While Matlow says losing the ability to call up NCAA players could pose a roster-building challenge. He highlighted the increased opportunities that will be available for Canadian baseball players.

“A lot of the kids that are growing up now may never get a chance to play professional baseball or get drafted now have the opportunity to play in their backyards,” continued Matlow.

All CBL games will continue to be live-streamed on YouTube and other platforms.

The commissioner has hinted that the league could add a tenth team by 2027 and possibly expand further within and outside of Ontario in subsequent years.