Bio
26-year-old right-handed pitcher Tahnaj Thomas is a first-year Explorer in 2025, acquired via trade from the Milwaukee Milkmen on August 22. A native of Freeport, Bahamas, Thomas brings elite velocity, international experience, and a compelling journey to Sioux City’s pitching staff. The hard-throwing right-hander appeared in 28 games this season for the Milkmen, making one start. Thomas has pitched to a 5.23 ERA across 31 innings this season, striking out 34 batters and walking 20.
Thomas’ path to professional baseball began in an unexpected moment of opportunity. In 2016, while playing shortstop for a Chicago-area team at a tournament in Jupiter, Florida, he volunteered to pitch in the final innings of a game when no one else stepped up. That impromptu bullpen session changed everything. His raw arm talent caught the attention of scouts, and by December, the Cleveland Indians signed him as an international free agent.
Originally signed as a shortstop, Thomas transitioned fully to pitching and was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in November 2018. His breakout came in 2019 with Rookie Advanced Bristol, where he posted a 3.17 ERA and struck out 59 batters in 48.1 innings. Over his final six starts, he dominated with a 1.86 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 29 frames, including a memorable outing where he hit 101 mph on the radar gun for the first time.
Thomas spent the 2021 season with High-A Greensboro, making 16 starts and striking out 62 batters over 60.2 innings. He then transitioned to a bullpen role with Double-A Altoona in 2022, where he posted a 3.02 ERA with 52 strikeouts and 3 saves across 50.1 innings. He returned to Altoona in 2023, making 36 appearances and recording 3 saves in 44.2 innings before electing free agency in November.
In February 2024, Thomas signed with the Milwaukee Milkmen of the American Association. His fastball routinely sits in the upper 90s and has touched triple digits, complemented by a developing slurve and changeup. He also represented Great Britain in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
Standing 6-foot-4 with a powerful frame and a relentless drive to improve, Thomas brings a dynamic presence to the Explorers’ rotation. His journey from the streets of the Bahamas to professional baseball is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and love for the game. With a fastball that can overpower hitters and a mindset built for growth, Thomas is poised to make a major impact in Sioux City.