Niagara University, NY- Former Purple Eagles catcher Matt Ward has been named Bullpen Catcher for Team Great Britain in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Ward was a mainstay behind the dish for Niagara for four seasons and was a key part of the 2024 MAAC Championship team. Ward appeared in 153 games for the Purple and White, recording 137 hits, 11 home runs and 88 RBI.

The World Baseball Classic starts Thursday March 5 with Great Britain first facing off against Mexico Friday March 6 at 1 pm.