Australian baseball is preparing to farewell one of its greatest-ever players. Tim Kennelly, the all-time statistical leader of the Australian Baseball League and a cornerstone of the Perth Heat, has announced he will retire from the ABL at the conclusion of the 2025–26 season.
Kennelly, affectionately known throughout the league as “TK,” will close the book on a professional career that has spanned nearly two decades and redefined excellence in Australian baseball.
Tim Kennelly’s Record-Breaking ABL Career
Few players in ABL history can match Kennelly’s impact or longevity. Across 456 ABL games, he established himself as the league’s all-time leader (so far) in:
- Games played (456)
- Hits (511)
- Home runs (63)
- Runs batted in (257)
A two-time Helms Award winner as league MVP (2012 and 2019, shared), Kennelly was the first player in modern ABL history to reach 250 career RBI and the second overall to surpass 500 hits. At the time of his retirement announcement, he sits just 11 hits away from becoming the all-time Australian professional hit leader, including the original ABL era.
A Dynasty Built in Perth
Kennelly’s legacy is inseparable from the success of the Perth Heat. Over his career, he has helped deliver six national championships, becoming synonymous with the club’s culture of toughness, professionalism, and competitiveness.
“Tim Kennelly is synonymous with the Perth Heat,” said Stuart Scott of Black Pearl Sports Group. “He set the standard for what it means to wear this jersey, loyalty, resilience, and an unrelenting will to compete.”
After appearing in more than 227 ABL games at NSR Hire Ballpark, Kennelly is preparing for his final regular-season home series, a milestone moment for both the club and its supporters.
Leadership Beyond the Numbers
While his on-field production defined eras of ABL play, Kennelly’s influence extended far beyond statistics. Known for his accessibility and commitment to fans, he made time for autographs, fan interactions, and community engagement long after games ended.
Off the field, Kennelly has been deeply involved with the Heat’s partnership with TEAM Spencer, supporting families affected by SMA and other neuromuscular conditions, and played a key role in the club’s Christmas School Holiday Camps, mentoring young players across Western Australia.
International Impact with Team Australia
Kennelly’s resume also includes major international success. He was a key contributor to Team Australia’s historic run to its first-ever quarterfinal at the 2023 World Baseball Classic and hopes to represent his country one final time when Australia travels to Japan for the World Baseball Classic in 2026.
A Final Salute in Perth
Although this weekend marks the final chance for fans to see Kennelly in a Perth Heat home uniform during the regular season, his career will be formally celebrated before the Heat’s series finale against the Sydney Blue Sox on Saturday, January 10.
“I’m not just leaving a team, I’m leaving a part of my life,” Kennelly said. “Baseball has given so much to me, and I’m excited to continue to grow this sport in WA.”
As the 2025–26 season unfolds, the Australian Baseball League will celebrate the final chapter of one of its most iconic careers, a legacy defined by records, championships, leadership, and an enduring impact on Australian baseball.