Getting a young superstar is always a big deal and this week that is exactly what the Ducks were able to do. Earlier in the week the Long Island Ducks announced that they signed infielder Henry Kusiak. Kusiak begins his first season with the Ducks and his third season in professional baseball. The 24-year-old brings a bat that will be very welcomed to the lineup, and he can play multiple positions, giving coach Ford many options, as the club prepares for another Atlantic League campaign this summer.
“Henry has been a terrific hitter and defender throughout his career,” said Ducks manager Lew Ford. “He is excited about the opportunity to play in the Atlantic League, and we look forward to having him in our lineup this season.”
Kusiak spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Dogs of the American Association, where he emerged as one of the league’s most productive hitters. In 79 games, he compiled a .309 batting average and an .858 OPS while adding 12 home runs, 47 RBIs, 50 runs scored, 97 hits, 16 doubles, one triple, 29 walks, and seven stolen bases. Defensively, he posted a .967 fielding percentage while splitting time between shortstop and third base. His standout performance earned him American Association Rookie Hitter of the Year honors and a selection to the league’s All-Star Game.
He began his pro career in 2024 with the Windy City ThunderBolts of the Frontier League. In 77 games he batted .277 with three home runs, 38 RBIs, 43 runs, 78 hits, 13 doubles, three triples, and a .345 on-base percentage.
Prior to turning professional, Kusiak played five seasons of collegiate baseball at Missouri Southern State University from 2020 through 2024. During his college career, he compiled a .348 batting average and a 1.063 OPS while setting school records for games played, at-bats, hits, RBIs, runs scored, and times hit by pitch.
“I am excited to join one of the best organizations in professional baseball,” said Kusiak. “I look forward to learning from my teammates and coaches and contributing to the winning culture surrounding the Ducks.”