MLP Roster Shakeup: Texas Ranchers Trade Loyd To Black Bears For Hewett
Major League Pickleball saw a notable trade finalized on Tuesday morning, with implications for both the Premier and Challenger levels heading into a pivotal part of the 2025 season.
The Texas Ranchers (8–6, 27 points) and the California Black Bears (2–3, 5 points) have struck a deal that sends Michael Loyd to California, while Texas receives Rafa Hewett and cash considerations in return.
It’s a cross-tier exchange that reshapes the bench depth for the Ranchers and potentially injects fresh momentum into the Black Bears’ struggling campaign.
Source: Pickleball.com
What This Means For Texas
Updated Texas Roster:
Christian Alshon, Eric Oncins, Rafa Hewett, Etta Tuionetoa, Tina Pisnik, Helena Jansen
Michael Loyd had been holding down the third male roster spot for Texas, and Rafa Hewett is expected to step into that same role. While the lefty fan-favorite hasn’t had a standout 2025 so far—posting a 1–9 record during MLP Austin with California—his ceiling remains high.
Hewett likely won’t challenge Christian Alshon or Eric Oncins for a starting position, but his presence gives the Ranchers a solid and experienced backup. In a league where mid-season injuries, matchup nuances, and waiver volatility can quickly shake up lineups, having someone like Hewett on standby is a luxury.
The timing of the trade is strategic, too. Hewett will make his Ranchers debut at the Edward Jones MLP Mid-Season Tournament, set to take place July 9–13 in Grand Rapids, Michigan—giving Texas extra depth as they push toward the postseason.
What This Means For California
Updated Black Bears Roster:
Michael Loyd, Juan Benitez, Lina Padegimaite, Layne Sleeth
For the California Black Bears, the acquisition of Michael Loyd could mark a turning point in a campaign that hasn’t quite found its rhythm yet. Although Loyd wasn’t a regular starter for Texas, he finally saw action at MLP Daytona, where he made the most of the opportunity—going 2–0 with wins in both men’s and mixed doubles against the SoCal Hard Eights.
That performance, combined with his key role in helping the Frisco Pandas (now the Nashville Chefs) reach the Challenger playoffs in 2024, speaks to Loyd’s potential to contribute when the pressure’s on.
California will be looking to tap into that experience during a crucial two-week stretch that includes both MLP San Clemente and MLP New York. With a new face and a clean slate, the Black Bears are hoping to climb back into contention before the window narrows.
A Subtle But Smart Trade
While this trade doesn’t involve headline stars or seismic roster overhauls, it’s the kind of smart mid-season move that can pay dividends in the long run. For Texas, it’s about insurance and depth. For California, it’s about taking a bet on upside.
As both teams gear up for their next tournaments, the swap between Hewett and Loyd could quietly shift the momentum on both sides. With roster windows tightening and playoff positioning on the line, every player matters—and both franchises know it.
