From Press Release:
ROME, Ga. — The Rome Emperors announced today that Nick Bernabe will become the organization’s new General Manager. Bernabe succeeds David Lane, who will become General Manager of the Winston-Salem Dash. Austin Jones is also being promoted to Assistant General Manager for the Emperors.
“Rome has been an incredible chapter for me and my family, and I’m extremely proud of what we’ve built here,” said Lane. “Helping launch the Emperors identity and watching this community embrace it has been something I’ll always be proud of, but what I’ll remember most are the people — our staff, our fans, our partners and this community. I’m grateful for the relationships and memories we’ve made over the past four years. I’m excited to see the Emperors continue to grow under Nick’s leadership, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter and the opportunity ahead in Winston-Salem.”
Bernabe joins the Emperors from another Braves affiliate, the Gwinnett Stripers, where he has served as Assistant General Manager since 2025. In his role with Atlanta’s Triple-A affiliate, Bernabe oversaw aspects of corporate partnerships, non-Stripers events and day-to-day operations of Gwinnett Field.
“I couldn’t be more excited to take this role with the Emperors,” said Bernabe. “I am thrilled to contribute to the history of baseball in Rome, Georgia, and to be a part of the community. I am incredibly grateful to Diamond Baseball Holdings and our partners with the Atlanta Braves for the opportunity.”
Bernabe enters his tenth year in professional baseball, with experience spanning Minor League Baseball, Major League Baseball, the Arizona Fall League, Spring Training operations and international sports, including work with the Chicago Cubs Academy in the Dominican Republic and at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.
“Nick has been a tremendous addition to the Gwinnett organization, and we’re excited to see him take the next step in his career with the Emperors,” said Pat Battle and Peter Freund, Executive Chairman and CEO of Diamond Baseball Holdings, respectively. “His broad experience across professional sports and his understanding of both team and facility operations make him a great fit to lead the Emperors. We’re confident he’ll build on the strong foundation David has established in Rome.”
Austin Jones, who has served as the Emperors’ Director of Sales since joining the organization in 2023, will be promoted to Assistant General Manager. In his current role, Jones leads the development and execution of corporate partnerships, working with local and regional businesses to create opportunities that support revenue growth and enhance the fan experience.
Bernabe and Jones will assume their new roles following the conclusion of the 2026 season.
2027 marks the 24th season of Minor League Baseball in the city of Rome, Georgia, the oldest active affiliate in the Atlanta Braves Farm System.
For tickets and additional information, visit GoEmperors.com, follow the Emperors on social media, or call the Rome Emperors front office at 706-378-5100.
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