In an electrifying display of power, Josh Mears, the standout outfielder for the Lake Country DockHounds, is poised to etch his name into the annals of the American Association. His impressive performance brings a beacon of excitement to Wisconsin baseball, a state where the Milwaukee Brewers, ironically, find themselves at the bottom of Major League Baseball in home run totals.
DockHounds' Josh Mears Nears League Home Run Record, igniting the American Association Stage
Oconomowoc, Wisconsin – As the 2026 baseball season reaches its crescendo, Josh Mears, a dynamic outfielder for the Lake Country DockHounds, is electrifying fans with his pursuit of a monumental home run record. Mears, 25, who was a second-round draft pick for the San Diego Padres in 2019, has blasted an incredible 31 home runs, placing him just two shy of the American Association's single-season record. This remarkable feat was highlighted on August 16, 2026, when Mears launched two massive shots against Chicago, further cementing his place as a premier slugger in the independent league.
The current record of 33 home runs was set in 2021 by Milwaukee native Adam Brett Walker, then playing for the Milwaukee Milkmen. Mears, with 19 games remaining on the schedule, including crucial home stands against the Cleburne Railroaders from August 18-20 and the Kane County Cougars from August 24-26, has ample opportunity to surpass this benchmark.
Despite never exceeding 22 home runs in his minor league career with the Padres organization—even in seasons with 20 more games played—Mears has found an extraordinary rhythm with the DockHounds. His journey underscores the talent flourishing within independent baseball leagues, providing a platform for players to rediscover and unleash their potential.
While the Milwaukee Brewers, located a short distance away, grapple with the lowest home run count in MLB, the DockHounds' slugger brings a different narrative to Wisconsin's baseball landscape. The American Association, established in its current form since 2005, continues to be a hotbed for emerging talent. The DockHounds, who began play in 2022, are currently just one game behind the Milkmen in the East Division standings, adding another layer of excitement to Mears' record chase.
Beyond Mears' individual brilliance, other notable power hitters are making waves in the Brewers' farm system and beyond. Andrew Fischer, Milwaukee's first-round pick in 2025, leads all of minor league baseball with 37 homers across two levels. Blake Burke, now with Class AAA Nashville, is on the cusp of a 30/30 season with 30 homers and close to 30 stolen bases. Additionally, Oak Creek High School alumnus Alex Binelas, a former Brewer prospect now with the Phillies' Class AA Reading, leads the Eastern League with 24 home runs, boasting an impressive .938 OPS.
Mears' pursuit of the home run record is not merely a statistical chase; it's a testament to resilience, untapped potential, and the vibrant competitive spirit of independent league baseball. His success provides a compelling narrative that captivates fans and shines a spotlight on the exciting developments within the American Association, demonstrating that exceptional power can emerge from unexpected places.
Josh Mears' phenomenal performance with the Lake Country DockHounds serves as a powerful reminder that talent often thrives beyond the brightest spotlights. His dedication and remarkable power display offer inspiration to aspiring athletes, proving that with perseverance, one can not only achieve but exceed past limitations. This story underscores the vital role independent leagues play in professional baseball, providing a crucial platform for players to refine their skills and make indelible marks on the sport. It's a testament to the fact that passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements, creating thrilling narratives for fans and offering second chances for prodigious talents.