M80 have officially announced the signing of Josh “JBa” Barutt, confirming a move previously reported by HLTV and Dust2.us. The 21-year-old American rifler joins the team ahead of the new season and replaces Jadan “HexT” Postma, whose contract was not renewed. The transfer marks a calculated step rather than a sudden reaction. M80 closed out 2025 with a clear sense of unfinished business.
The context behind M80’s decision
We’re eating good for christmas 🎄
welcome @JBafps to M80! pic.twitter.com/htM0cAyjvV
— M80 💣 (@M80gg) December 16, 2025
At the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, M80 impressed early. The team went 3–0 in Stage 1 and looked well prepared. However, momentum faded in Stage 2, where they exited with a 2–3 record and narrowly missed the playoffs.
As a result, familiar issues resurfaced. M80 struggled with consistency across series and failed to close maps in decisive moments. Instead of rebuilding from scratch, the organization chose a more controlled solution. Therefore, the focus shifted toward a targeted addition that could strengthen the team’s structure without disrupting its core.
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JBa: from prospect to reliable rifler
JBa arrives after two years with Wildcard, where he developed into a full-time starter. Over that period, he played 401 maps and posted a 1.13 average rating, one of the most consistent numbers on the roster.
Moreover, his development accelerated under Peter “stanislaw” Jarguz. During that time, JBa improved his understanding of round tempo, positioning, and structured play. These qualities are especially valuable for teams aiming for long-term stability. In addition, he gained Major experience in Shanghai and Austin, which helped build his composure on big stages.
A turbulent ending with Wildcard
Despite individual growth, JBa’s final year with Wildcard was unstable. After a promising start to 2025 and a top-16 finish at the Perfect World Shanghai Major, results began to decline at international LAN events.
The situation worsened after the BLAST.tv Austin Major. Public controversy followed soon after. Aran “Sonic” Groesbeek pointed to internal turmoil, while Love “phzy” Smidebrant openly criticized what he described as chaotic roster decisions. Ultimately, the organization benched and transfer-listed the entire roster in November after failing to qualify for the StarLadder Budapest Major.
Against this backdrop, JBa’s move to M80 appears logical. He gains a more stable environment, while M80 acquire a disciplined and reliable rifler.
Expected role within the lineup
M80 do not view JBa as a star carry. Instead, they value his consistency, decision-making, and late-round reliability. He is expected to stabilize rifling roles and reduce pressure on the team’s core players.
Meanwhile, M80 currently sit 22nd in the world rankings. This signing reflects an attempt to move forward. The goal is clear: break into the top 20 and remain there.
Debut and current roster
JBa will make his first appearance with M80 at Fragadelphia Miami, scheduled for January 2–4. The event offers a low-pressure setting to integrate the new player and refine roles ahead of a busy season.
Current M80 roster (CS2):
- Michael “Swisher” Schmid
- Fritz “slaxz-” Dietrich
- Elias “s1n” Stein
- Mason “Lake” Sanderson
- Josh “JBa” Barutt
Coach: Rory “dephh” Jackson
Conclusion: a bet on stability
The signing of JBa underlines M80’s strategic offseason approach. Instead of chasing headline names, the organization opted for structure and reliability. For JBa, it is a chance to reset his career trajectory. For M80, it is an opportunity to turn potential into consistent results as early as 2026.
