The Bucks are back with GM Maysum Jaffer, a seasoned JMS vet who knows what it takes to build a winning culture. This year, he selected longtime co-captain Ali Raza Nasser to help lead the charge. Known as the best leader in the league, AR brings championship pedigree, elite defense, and an unshakeable intensity. The Bucks prioritized culture and defense early in the draft, but with questions around power and offensive consistency, the spotlight will shine on how their lineup develops over the season.
This is a team filled with high-IQ players, underrated picks, and sneaky value late in the draft. With strong outfield coverage and a steady infield, the Bucks could quietly climb the standings and make serious playoff noise.
š§¢ Maysum Jaffer
A returning GM with a reputation for discipline and long-term vision. Maysum is a contact hitter who will likely lead off or be in the top third of the lineup. His ability to set the tone on offense and manage the bench will be critical to the Bucksā success.
X-Factor: Can Maysumās plate discipline and leadership spark the offense from the jump?
š„ Ali Raza Nasser
A captain who leads by example and intensity. AR is one of the most respected players in the league ā calm under pressure and elite on defense. Heāll patrol CF, command the outfield, and is one of the few players who can change a game with both glove and bat.
X-Factor: Can AR carry the team emotionally and defensively while still producing MVP-level at-bats?
šÆ Abbas Kermalli
The teamās key power bat in the heart of the lineup. Abbas brings strength at 3B and solidifies the middle of the order with his clutch hitting and smart baserunning.
X-Factor: Will Abbas be the consistent run producer the Bucks need to keep up with the leagueās top offenses?
āļø Nadim Rahemtulla
An anchor at shortstop, Nadimās teams just win. With four (maybe five) championships to his name, he brings unparalleled experience. Heās not flashy, but heās surgical with the bat and elite with positioning.
X-Factor: Can Nadim keep the infield locked down while delivering his trademark timely hits?
ā” Hussein Badreddine
One of the top rookies from this year’s draft, Hussein came in with swagger and didnāt disappoint. His bat is electric, and he’s gunning for the shortstop spot, potentially moving Nadim to 2B.
X-Factor: Will Husseinās confidence and early flash translate into long-term consistency?
š Mustafa Alam
A pure outfielder and a guy you can trust to track down almost anything hit his way. Heās played at a high level in other leagues and brings a calm but confident presence to the Bucks’ outfield.
X-Factor: Can Alam give the Bucks above-average range and reliability in the outfield corners?
š£ Ray Noormohamed
A beast at 1B, Ray hits absolute missiles. Heāll slot into the middle of the lineup and will be leaned on heavily for extra-base hits. His athleticism is limited, but his bat is dangerous.
X-Factor: Can Ray rack up RBIs without needing to be overly mobile defensively?
š Hassan Abbas Kara
A potential breakout candidate. Kara returns after four years away and has come back 30 lbs stronger. His swing looks different, and this could be the year his glove and power come together.
X-Factor: Can Kara make the leap from utility bat to impact player in the lineup?
š³ Altaf Champsi
The veteran pitcher returns to the mound. While his bat isnāt as fast as it once was and heās slower on the bases, heās got the IQ and calm to pitch big games. The Bucksā infield defense will support him, and heāll need to find his form from his prime years.
X-Factor: Will Altafās pitching command return to elite levels and make up for the lack of a second arm?
š§© Imran Merali
A wild card this year. Imran has power, but he hasnāt played regularly in a while. Heās eyeing 1B and could push Ray for reps. If his bat wakes up, he could be one of the steals of the draft.
X-Factor: Can Imran rediscover his swing and earn regular RBIs?
š§ Shahid Rahemtulla
A vet with high upside, especially alongside his brother Nadim. Health and attitude have been questions in the past, but he thrives in a structured system and will benefit from a strong locker room.
X-Factor: Will Shahid become a leadership presence and reclaim a prominent defensive role?
š§¢ Tahir Khorasanee
One of the late-round steals. Tahir has the best bat from the last round and is happy to catch. If he shows up consistently, his plate approach and coachability could make him a game-changer.
X-Factor: Can Tahir provide consistent production from the 10 or 11 spot and help manage pitchers from behind the plate?
š ļø Mujtaba Alibhai (Reserve)
A veteran who knows how to contribute at multiple positions. Mujtabaās versatility makes him an ideal sub when needed.
X-Factor: Can Mujtaba step into a high-pressure situation and play like a regular?
š Ameen Syed (Reserve)
Known for being reliable and hardworking, Ameen is the definition of team-first. Heāll come in prepared and ready to do whatās needed.
X-Factor: Can Ameenās preparation and versatility allow him to make an unexpected impact?
Team X-Factors:
- Do they have enough consistent power outside of AR, Abbas and Ray to stay in slugfests?
- Can Altaf return to elite form on the mound and anchor the team defensively?
- Will the top of the order get on base enough for the big bats to make a difference?
