BUDDY BENGEL
Chief breaking ball officer
Buddy has been the proud owner of the Marlins since their inception in 2010. Under his leadership, the Marlins have achieved significant success, winning back-to-back Coastal Plain League titles in 2018 and 2019. As the owner and managing partner, Buddy is currently spearheading a multimillion-dollar renovation of Big Rock Stadium and has established the league’s most extensive scouting department.
Beyond the Marlins, Buddy is a seasoned entrepreneur and restaurateur. He serves as the managing partner of Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery and owns Poppy’s as well as Bengel Sports Marketing & Consulting. Through his consulting firm, Buddy has worked with Spalding and 3n2 Sports, as well as political campaigns and public relations initiatives, showcasing his versatile business acumen.
Buddy’s roots in baseball run deep, having played professionally in the United States, internationally in Italy, and with the Italian National Team. When he’s not at the ballpark or managing his many ventures, Buddy treasures time with his wife Anella and their children Ella and Cutter. Deeply connected to the Morehead City community, Buddy is proud to call it home and is passionate about contributing to its growth and success.
David krakower
Team President
[email protected]
David joins the Morehead City Marlins as the Team President for his first season, overseeing all aspects of business and day to day operations. His responsibilities include managing corporate sponsorships, developing ticket sales packages, and enhancing fan engagement initiatives to elevate the game-day experience.
With 26 years of experience in professional and collegiate sports, David’s career has spanned Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, Independent League Baseball, the National Hockey League, Major League Soccer, and ESPN’s college football operations.
Outside of work, he enjoys bodybuilding and became a professional bodybuilder in 2019. On weekends, you can find David cheering on Mizzou, the San Francisco Giants, and the 49ers. David, his wife Andrea, their son Shawn, and their dog Posey are thrilled to call Morehead City home and are excited to be part of the community.
ALAINA ALBERICO
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & PROMOTIONS
[email protected]
Alaina enters her first season with the Morehead City Marlins as the Director of Marketing and Promotions. In this role, she oversees marketing, promotions, branding, merchandise, community engagement, and the overall fan experience. She also runs the Host Family Program and Internship Program.
Alaina spent the past two seasons with a team in the Prospect League, where she boosted their social media following by over 39% in less than a year through creative content that resonated with younger audiences. She also developed dynamic game-day experiences that kept fans coming back, ensuring the team stood out both on the field and online. She is excited to bring her expertise in marketing, branding, and fan engagement to Morehead City.
When she’s not at Big Rock Stadium, Alaina enjoys spending time at the beach or out on the water. A lifelong baseball fan, she proudly roots for the Tampa Bay Rays and is thrilled to be part of the Morehead City community.
LAUREL SMITH
SALES & OPERATIONS MANAGER