LA PLUME, PA- Former Keystone College baseball standout Dakota McFadden is taking his game in new directions, by playing for the Firefighters Banana Ball team. McFadden brings his signature energy, versatility, and competitive edge to one of the most entertaining sports in the world. McFadden's head coach at Keystone College, Jamie Shevchik, had this to say about his former star athlete. "Dakota was destined for Banana Ball before Banana Ball was a thing. His high energy style of play showed up every single day when he stepped foot on the field." 

McFadden's time at Keystone was defined by consistency and production. Throughout his career with the Giants, he posted a .367 batting average across 87 games played, collecting 119 hits, 28 doubles, and 18 home runs while driving in 109 RBI's. He paired that offensive impact with a strong on-base presence, .435 OBP, and double-digit stolen bases, becoming one of the most dangerous hitters in the lineup during his tenure with the Giants.

The two-way player also shined on the mound, logging 137 innings over two season with a 3.74 ERA and 119 strikeouts. McFadden gave Keystone the flexibility and stability needed in starts and key situations, helping to anchor the pitching unit in big moments throughout his two-year career.

After graduating from Keystone in 2019, McFadden continued his professional baseball career in independent leagues, keeping his playing career alive at the next level, gaining valuable experience in the professional game. McFadden's journey eventually led him into Banana Ball, where he became a staple of one of baseball's fastest growing entertainment platforms.

McFadden went on to compete with the Savannah Bananas from 2021 through 2023, embracing the sport's high-energy, fan-first style of the sport. In 2024, he transitioned to the Firefighters Banana Ball team, continuing his outstanding career in the Banana Ball circuit, while remaining part of the nationwide touring experience.

Now, McFadden returns to Northeast Pennsylvania as the Firefighters prepare to take on the Loco Beach Coconuts at PNC Field on May 22 and May 23. The series gives local fans a chance to see a former Keystone standout athlete compete on one of baseball's most unique and biggest stages. 

"Keystone College was the best decision I ever made when I left junior college." said McFadden, "I got into Banana Ball in 2021, I tried out for the Bananas on February 25, 2021 and made the team that same day. I played for the Bananas from 2021-23 and then I moved to the Firefighters in 2024, which is one of the newer teams in Banana Ball."

McFadden continued, "It means everything being able to return back to the area that helped mold me into the person I am today. I am super excited to play there [PNC Field] and see my coaches, former teammates, and friends. It is going to be an unforgettable weekend." 

From Keystone College to independent professional baseball and now Banana Ball, McFadden's career reflects a modern baseball path built on persistence, versatility, and the ability to thrive in any version of the game.