New Mexico Goatheads roster rules differ from Minor League Baseball standards
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 3:06 AM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
BaseballAhead of the October 16 season opener between the New Mexico Goatheads and the Idaho Steelheads, differences in roster construction between the ECHL and Double-A baseball have emerged. ECHL franchises operate with a salary cap and floor, whereas Double-A baseball teams do not use a salary cap. ECHL rosters are limited to 20 or 21 active players including two goaltenders, compared to the 28-player limit in Double-A., the ECHL enforces a limit of four veteran players per team, defined by those with at least 260 professional games in specific leagues. In contrast, Double-A rosters carry no veteran restrictions and remain under the exclusive control of their MLB parent organizations. New Mexico Goatheads players are managed through a collaboration between coach Zack Stortini and the Colorado Avalanche front office.
- •The New Mexico Goatheads play the Idaho Steelheads on October 16 at the Rio Rancho Events Center.
- •ECHL teams follow a weekly salary cap while Double-A baseball teams operate without one.
- •ECHL rosters limit teams to four veteran players based on previous professional game experience.
- •ECHL franchises pay player salaries, whereas MLB organizations pay all Double-A players.
- •The ECHL mandates two goaltenders per active roster.
- 3:06 AMYahoo Sports — How does ECHL roster construction differ from Triple-A baseball?
"The New Mexico Goatheads are a little more than a month from their inaugural season opener. But ahead of the Colorado Avalanche affiliate’s Oct. 16 matchup against the Idaho Steelheads at the Rio Rancho Events Center, it’s worth taking a look at how ECHL franchises construct their rosters — and how it differs from other minor-league sports. In this case, compared to Double-A baseball (the ...
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