Baseball United Announces Star-Studded Leadership Team

Baseball United, the first professional baseball league focused on the Middle East and South Asia, has introduced a new leadership structure to support its next phase of growth.

The league said the new team will help expand regional partnerships, improve fan and player experiences, and strengthen its global presence.

The board will now be led by an ownership group that includes some of the most successful players in Major League Baseball history. Former MLB star Barry Larkin has been appointed as Chairman. Larkin is a Hall of Famer, 12-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove winner, 1995 National League MVP, and a World Series champion.

Joining him, Adrián Beltré, also a Hall of Famer and a 19-year MLB veteran, has been named Vice Chairman. Beltré is a four-time All-Star, five-time Gold Glove winner, and a member of the prestigious 3,000-hit club.

Another Vice Chairman role has been given to Robinson Chirinos, an 11-year MLB veteran and current Special Assistant with the Baltimore Orioles.

With this move, Baseball United becomes one of the few global sports leagues where former players play a key role in leadership, ownership, and long-term planning.

Chairman Barry Larkin said the goal is to build a strong foundation for the future and create a permanent home for professional baseball in the region.

Vice Chairman Adrián Beltré added that the league offers a big opportunity to grow baseball globally by developing new talent and creating pathways for players in emerging markets.

Robinson Chirinos highlighted the importance of connecting with fans and communities while promoting grassroots development and giving young players more opportunities.

As part of the restructuring, John Miedreich, a co-founder of Baseball United, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He previously handled baseball operations, fundraising, government and investor relations, and helped develop the Baseball United Ballpark.

Miedreich brings over 20 years of leadership experience from the New York City Police Department, where he managed complex operations and built international partnerships, including in the Middle East.

He said the league has built a strong base over the past three years and will now focus on steady growth. He also confirmed that the 2026 season, set for November, will feature better competition, improved broadcasts, and enhanced fan experiences.

Baseball United plans to expand its game schedule, improve production quality, and strengthen community programs. More details about the upcoming season are expected to be announced later this year.

The league aims to unlock a large untapped market for baseball by promoting professional competition, youth development, and community engagement across the region.