The Players League Announces New Commissioners to Lead Three Expanding Summer Baseball Leagues
The Players League is proud to introduce three influential leaders who will guide three of our leagues into a new era of competitive, community-driven summer baseball.
John Nester Joins the Palmetto State League
The Palmetto State League is proud to welcome John Nester, a South Carolina native whose lifelong dedication to player development and baseball excellence makes him the ideal leader as the league prepares for its inaugural season.
Raised in Greer, Nester has coached hundreds of athletes who advanced to college and professional baseball. His playing career includes multiple state championships at Riverside High School, three standout seasons at Clemson University (2008–2010), and professional experience with the Oakland A’s and San Diego Padres — where he later served as the organization’s Minor League Catching Instructor.
“I’ve coached hundreds of players who have gone on to play college or pro baseball and know how important it is during the college years to have a place to compete and continue to grow,” Nester said. “This league will give players exactly that.”
As the league launches, Nester is excited to help bring a fresh brand of summer baseball to South Carolina. “The baseball community here is massive, and we’re ready to offer college players a new opportunity to develop and showcase their skills,” he added.
Brett Thaler Named Commissioner of the Volunteer State Baseball League
The Players League proudly introduces Brett Thaler as Commissioner of the Volunteer State Baseball League — bringing leadership forged through decades of experience as a player, competitor, and student of the game.
Baseball has been a constant throughout Thaler’s life. A native of Middletown, New Jersey and graduate of Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, he went on to compete at the collegiate level with stops at Centenary College (NJ), Lynn University (FL), and Trevecca Nazarene University (TN).
Thaler continued his career professionally, playing for the Worcester Tornadoes of the CAN-AM League in 2008 and the Alexandria Aces of the Continental League in 2009. These experiences — competing across multiple states, levels, and environments — shaped his deep appreciation for player development and the impact summer baseball can have on aspiring athletes.
Now leading the Volunteer State Baseball League, Thaler is fueled by the same passion that defined his playing days.
“I’m excited about giving college baseball players the opportunity to play in a summer college baseball league,” Thaler said. “There’s nothing better than competing, improving, and growing alongside teammates who share your love for the game.”
Under Thaler’s leadership, the league aims to create meaningful summer opportunities for college athletes while building a strong sense of community around the game. With his experience, energy, and vision, the Volunteer State Baseball League is poised to deliver an authentic summer baseball experience — one built on passion, competition, and opportunity.
Michael Caveney Takes Helm of the Cowboy Collegiate League
Rounding out the trio of leaders is Michael Caveney, the newly appointed Commissioner of the Cowboy Collegiate League. A seasoned coach and educator, Caveney has worked across nearly every level of baseball, including roles with USA Baseball, the Knothole Foundation, CBC Baseball, the Badlands Big Sticks, and the Oak Island Loggerheads. His collegiate coaching journey has included Brunswick Community College, Queens University of Charlotte, Southwest Baptist University, and his current position at Nelson University.
Caveney’s passion for the game grew even deeper after coaching in the Old North State League last summer.
“I loved what Alec and his family are building,” Caveney said. “When presented with the opportunity to help this new league grow, it was impossible to say no.”
Originally from Augusta, Georgia and now based in Raleigh, Caveney is eager to help towns across the region experience the power of baseball to bring communities together.
“I’m most excited to see how each town embraces this league and its teams,” he shared. “That sense of community is what makes summer baseball so special.”
A Unified Vision for Growth
With Nester, Thaler, and Caveney at the helm of their respective leagues, The Players League is positioned to deliver high-level competition, exceptional player development, and unmatched small-town baseball experiences across the Southeast and beyond.
These leaders share a common passion for the sport, a commitment to growing the game, and a belief in the impact summer baseball can have on players and communities alike.
The Players League looks forward to a milestone year as all three leagues continue to grow, connect with their communities, and prepare for unforgettable seasons ahead.