The Tri-City ValleyCats announced on March 15, 2024, that they have extended the contract of Field Manager Greg Tagert through the 2028 season. Tagert’s continued leadership comes after a successful season in which the ValleyCats achieved a remarkable 62-34 record, marking the highest number of wins in a single season in franchise history and securing their first postseason series victory in the Frontier League.
Under Tagert’s guidance, the ValleyCats have made significant strides, as this marks the second consecutive year the team has reached the playoffs. Matt Callahan, Vice President and General Manager of the ValleyCats, expressed enthusiasm regarding the extension, stating, “We are thrilled to announce this contract extension with Greg. This has been a tremendous fit and partnership over the past two years. 2025 was a special season in Tri-City, and we are excited to build on that success for the future.”
Tagert’s Track Record and Achievements
The 62-year-old manager has compiled a record of 115-75 during his tenure with the ValleyCats. Notably, under his leadership, right-handed pitcher Nick DeCarlo and catcher Miguel Useche were signed by the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs organizations, respectively, highlighting Tagert’s ability to develop talent.
Tagert was also named the manager of the Atlantic Conference All-Star team, a testament to his impact within the league. Players such as catcher Oscar Campos, third baseman Ian Walters, and starting pitchers Arlo Marynczak and Easton Klein represented the ValleyCats at the Frontier League All-Star Game held at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.
In the context of the ValleyCats’ history, Tagert joins an elite group of managers who have won over 100 games. With a win percentage of .605, he leads all managers in the team’s 23-season history. As he enters the 2026 season, he will become the fourth manager to lead the team for three seasons.
Looking Ahead to Future Seasons
Throughout his extensive career in professional baseball, Tagert has amassed a record of 1,430-1,258, with a win percentage of .532 over 30 seasons, including 11 years in the Frontier League. Reflecting on his experiences with the ValleyCats, Tagert stated, “When I joined the ValleyCats organization, I was certainly aware of the proud history of the franchise, along with the stellar reputation of the ownership and front office. These past two years have given me a first-hand look at what the ValleyCats are all about. Treating every fan, player, partner, employee in a first-class manner has made this an absolute wonderful experience for me here in the Capital Region.”
Tagert also expressed gratitude toward the ownership, including the Gladstone family, Rick Murphy, and Callahan, for their trust in him to manage the team for the next three years. He added, “I can’t wait for the 2026 season and the years to follow. As our team and front office provides many more special moments for our fans at ‘The Joe.’”
The Frontier League will expand to a 102-game season, adding six more games compared to the 2025 campaign. The ValleyCats are set to kick off their home opener on May 15, 2026, facing the Québec Capitales in a rematch of the Atlantic Conference Finals.
