The Worcester Railers made another acquisition on Friday when they signed forward Matthew Barnaby Jr. Barnaby has spent some time in the ECHL, but most recently he comes over from Finland. During the 2023-24 season, he scored 21 points, putting up 11 goals and 10 assists. Between the 2020-2023 seasons, he spent time with the Orlando Solar Bears, Fort Wayne Komets, and the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. In 76 games played at that level, he scored 22 points with 10 goals and 12 assists. The beginning of Barnaby’s career at the Southern Professional Hockey League where he played for the Evansville Thunderbolts. He scored 59 points in 67 total games played.
Before Barnaby started his professional career, he spent time in the United States Hockey League playing for the Youngstown Phantoms and the Chicago Steel. During the 2018-19 season, he had a total of 29 points with 10 goals and 19 assists in 53 total games. Matthew Barnaby Jr. also happens to be the son of Matthew Barnaby, who had a 14-year NHL career. He played 834 games with 300 career points, putting up 113 goals and 187 assists over the course of his career.
“I couldn’t be more excited,” Barnaby said. “Worcester’s an awesome place. I’ve played there a couple of times as an opponent and I’ve got friends in Boston. I’m excited to be somewhere where I’m comfortable. I’ve heard it’s a great place to play hockey, and the fans are very passionate.”
-Barnaby on joining the Railers
He will be an extra spark plug off the bench for the Worcester Railers, especially with the News of long-time Railer Keeghan Howdeshell being dealt to the Cincinnati Cyclones for future Considerations. Barnaby is ready to go and will fit right in with the Railers as they pursue bringing a championship to Worcester for the first time.
