The 2026 University of North Carolina baseball program, widely known as the Diamond Heels, enters a pivotal season under the leadership of head coach Scott Forbes. Now in his sixth year at the helm, Forbes has assembled a squad characterized by a strategic blend of veteran leadership and an aggressive influx of talent through the transfer portal. The 2026 roster consists of 36 players, including 20 returning contributors and 16 newcomers who aim to build on the momentum of the program’s recent successes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

The composition of this year's team reflects the modern era of college baseball, where roster continuity is balanced against the immediate impact of experienced transfers. With a pitching staff led by high-profile returners and a revamped lineup featuring several Power Five transfers, the Diamond Heels are positioned to be significant contenders in the national landscape.

Who is on the 2026 UNC Baseball Roster?

The current roster for the University of North Carolina baseball team features a diverse group of athletes spanning five different academic years, from true freshmen to graduate students. The team’s structure is built around a core of 20 players who remained in Chapel Hill following the 2025 season. This group is supplemented by 16 new faces: six Division I transfers, one junior college (JUCO) transfer, and nine true freshmen from the high school ranks.

Returning Core and Leadership

Stability in college baseball often starts with the pitching staff and the middle infield. The Diamond Heels return several key arms, most notably Jason DeCaro and Folger Boaz. Both pitchers have demonstrated the ability to handle the rigors of a Friday night start in the ACC, providing Coach Forbes with a reliable foundation for the weekend rotation.

In the field, the return of Gavin Gallaher is perhaps the most significant storyline. As a junior infielder who earned Most Outstanding Player honors during the Chapel Hill Regional in previous post-season play, Gallaher provides a veteran presence in the heart of the order. Other notable returners including Carter French and Rom Kellis V bring senior leadership to a clubhouse that will need to integrate a large number of newcomers quickly.

The Transfer Portal Impact

The 2026 season marks one of the most active offseasons for UNC in terms of the transfer portal. Coach Forbes and his staff targeted specific needs, particularly behind the plate and in terms of raw power in the outfield.

The addition of Macon Winslow, a catcher transferring from Duke University, is a rare cross-rivalry move that significantly upgrades the team's defensive stability and veteran handling of the pitching staff. Furthermore, the arrival of Owen Hull from George Mason brings a proven power bat to the outfield, while Jake Schaffner (North Dakota State) and Erik Paulsen (Stony Brook) provide versatile infield options with established hitting profiles at the Division I level.

Detailed 2026 UNC Baseball Roster Table

The following table provides the complete list of players on the 2026 roster, organized by their jersey numbers. This data includes their designated positions, academic standing, physical stature, and hometown backgrounds.

Jersey # Player Name Position Year Height Weight Hometown / Previous School
1 Cooper Nicholson INF Jr. 5' 11" 195 lbs West Des Moines, IA / Iowa Central CC
2 Jake Schaffner INF Jr. 6' 2" 175 lbs Janesville, WI / North Dakota State
3 Lee Sowers INF So. 5' 10" 185 lbs Glen Allen, VA / Freeman HS
4 Sawyer Black OF So. 6' 1" 194 lbs Oak Ridge, NC / Wesleyan Christian
5 Gavin Gallaher INF Jr. 6' 1" 191 lbs Apex, NC / Pro 5 Academy
6 Macon Winslow C Jr. 6' 0" 200 lbs Hertford, NC / Duke
7 Perry Hargett OF So. 6' 0" 187 lbs Peachland, NC / Metrolina Christian
8 Owen Hull OF Jr. 6' 4" 215 lbs Alexandria, VA / George Mason
10 Tom Chmielewski LHP Gr. 6' 2" 210 lbs Needham, MA / Princeton
11 Matt McKnight INF Fr. 6' 3" 195 lbs Charlotte, NC / Charlotte Catholic
12 Tyler Howe OF/1B Fr. 5' 11" 185 lbs Huntersville, NC / Hopewell HS
14 Michael Maginnis OF Gr. 6' 1" 210 lbs Newnan, GA / Georgia State
15 Cameron Padgett RHP Sr. 6' 3" 195 lbs Salisbury, NC / East Rowan HS
17 Talan Holiday RHP Fr. 6' 2" 190 lbs Pembroke Pines, FL / American Heritage
18 Carter French OF Sr. 6' 2" 196 lbs Tampa, FL / Jesuit HS
19 Camron Seagraves RHP So. 6' 3" 179 lbs Ellerbe, NC / Grace Christian Academy
20 AJ Terry INF Fr. 6' 0" 190 lbs Randolph, NJ / Randolph HS
23 Colin Hynek C Gr. 6' 1" 200 lbs Rockmart, GA / Georgia State
24 Matthew Matthijs RHP Sr. 6' 2" 230 lbs Greenville, NC / D.H. Conley HS
25 Rom Kellis V OF/C Sr. 6' 1" 203 lbs Gilbert, SC / Florence Darlington
26 Kyle Percival LHP Sr. 6' 5" 220 lbs Lancaster, SC / Andrew Jackson HS
27 Caden Glauber RHP Fr. 6' 4" 210 lbs Fort Mill, SC / Catawba Ridge HS
28 Jadyn Nunez OF Fr. 6' 1" 185 lbs Miami, FL / Doral Academy
29 Jason DeCaro RHP Jr. 6' 5" 230 lbs North Port, NY / St. Anthony's HS
31 Olin Johnson RHP Jr. 6' 6" 230 lbs Bellingham, WA / McCallie (TN)
35 Jackson Rose LHP Fr. 6' 3" 205 lbs Woodstock, GA / Etowah HS
36 Folger Boaz LHP Jr. 6' 2" 212 lbs Pilot Mountain, NC / East Surry HS
39 Jake Cackovic RHP Fr. 6' 7" 215 lbs Holly Springs, NC / Holly Springs HS
40 Walker McDuffie RHP So. 6' 0" 200 lbs Broadway, NC / Lee County HS
41 Justin Mabe RHP Fr. 6' 3" 185 lbs Lexington, NC / North Davidson HS
42 Boston Flannery RHP Jr. 6' 4" 230 lbs New City, NY / Brunswick
43 Riley Leatherman RHP R-Fr. 6' 2" 180 lbs Maple Grove, MN / Wayzata HS
44 Erik Paulsen INF Jr. 6' 3" 215 lbs Massapequa, NY / Stony Brook
47 Sean Hurley RHP Fr. 6' 5" 205 lbs Cohoes, NY / Shaker HS
49 Amos Rich RHP Fr. 6' 2" 200 lbs Waynesville, NC / Tuscola HS
51 Tim Lawson LHP R-Fr. 6' 5" 230 lbs Fort Myers, FL / Bishop Verot
52 Andrew Wallen RHP R-Fr. 6' 7" 245 lbs Greenville, NC / J.H. Rose HS
53 Ryan Lynch RHP So. 6' 4" 235 lbs Moorestown, NJ / Moorestown HS

Analysis of the 2026 Pitching Staff: The Arm Barn

The strength of any Scott Forbes-led team usually resides in the "Arm Barn," a colloquial term for the Diamond Heels' pitching staff. For the 2026 season, the staff is a mixture of elite velocity and deceptive left-handed options.

The Frontline Starters

Jason DeCaro (No. 29) and Folger Boaz (No. 36) are expected to anchor the weekend rotation. DeCaro, standing at 6'5", brings an imposing presence to the mound. His development since his freshman year has been a focal point for the coaching staff, particularly his ability to maintain velocity into the later innings.

Folger Boaz provides the necessary left-handed contrast. As a junior, Boaz has refined his secondary pitches, making him a difficult matchup for left-handed dominant lineups in the ACC. The success of these two pitchers will likely dictate the ceiling for the Diamond Heels in 2026.

Bullpen Depth and Relievers

One of the standout performers from the 2025 season was Walker McDuffie (No. 40). As a sophomore in 2026, McDuffie is expected to occupy a high-leverage role in the bullpen. His ability to enter games with runners on base and generate swings-and-misses is a critical asset.

The bullpen is further bolstered by veteran arms like Matthew Matthijs and Cameron Padgett. Matthijs, a senior from Greenville, NC, has been a workhorse for the program, often appearing in mid-week games and weekend relief roles. His experience in high-pressure situations provides a safety net for the younger pitchers on the staff, such as redshirt freshmen Andrew Wallen and Tim Lawson.

Freshmen Arms to Watch

The 2026 recruiting class brought in several pitchers with significant physical upside. Jake Cackovic, a 6'7" right-hander from Holly Springs, possesses the frame that professional scouts covet. While he may begin the season in a developmental role, his ceiling is considered one of the highest among the newcomers. Similarly, Talan Holiday from Florida brings a polished pedigree from American Heritage High School, a known powerhouse in prep baseball.

Position Player Breakdown: Power and Versatility

The Diamond Heels' offensive strategy for 2026 appears to focus on positional flexibility and improved contact rates. The coaching staff has prioritized players who can play multiple positions across the diamond.

The Infield: Stability and New Talent

The infield is led by junior Gavin Gallaher (No. 5). Gallaher has proven to be a clutch hitter and a versatile defender. Surrounding him are several key transfers. Jake Schaffner (No. 2) arrives from North Dakota State with a reputation as a high-contact hitter who can spark the offense from the top of the order.

At first base, Erik Paulsen (No. 44) brings power from the left side of the plate. Standing 6'3", Paulsen’s transition from Stony Brook to the ACC will be a major narrative to follow. If Paulsen can replicate his mid-major production against Power Five pitching, the UNC lineup will become significantly more dangerous. Cooper Nicholson, the JUCO transfer from Iowa Central, adds further depth and a competitive edge to the competition for playing time at the middle infield spots.

The Catcher Position: A New Era

The most notable change for the 2026 season is behind the plate. Macon Winslow (No. 6) is expected to take over the primary catching duties. Having previously played for Duke, Winslow is intimately familiar with the hitters in the ACC. His defensive prowess and ability to manage a pitching staff were primary reasons why the UNC staff pursued him in the transfer portal.

Providing backup and situational depth is Colin Hynek (No. 23), a graduate transfer from Georgia State. Hynek brings a veteran presence and provides Coach Forbes with the luxury of having two experienced catchers, a necessity for the grueling college baseball schedule.

The Outfield: Speed and Strength

The outfield features a mix of returning speed and newcomer power. Sawyer Black (No. 4) and Perry Hargett (No. 7) represent the sophomore class's contribution to the grass. Both players are elite athletes capable of covering significant ground in the gaps at Boshamer Stadium.

Owen Hull (No. 8) is the X-factor in the outfield. As a junior transfer from George Mason, Hull brings a physical 6'4" frame and significant home run potential. In a league like the ACC, where weekend series often turn into slugfests, having a "power bat" like Hull in the corner outfield is essential. Michael Maginnis, another Georgia State transfer, adds further depth as a graduate student who can play multiple outfield positions.

UNC Baseball Coaching Staff for 2026

The continuity of the coaching staff is a hallmark of the North Carolina baseball program. Scott Forbes continues to build his legacy, supported by a staff that emphasizes both analytical development and traditional scouting.

  • Scott Forbes (Head Coach): Entering his 6th season as head coach and over two decades with the program in various roles. Forbes has maintained the high standards set by his predecessor, Mike Fox.
  • Bryant Gaines (Associate Head Coach / Pitching Coach): Gaines is credited with the development of the "Arm Barn." His ability to recruit and refine high-level pitching talent is a cornerstone of the team's success.
  • Jesse Wierzbicki (Assistant Coach / Hitting Coach): Wierzbicki works primarily with the hitters, catchers, and infielders. Under his guidance, UNC has consistently produced some of the most disciplined hitters in the conference.
  • Scott Jackson (Assistant Coach / Recruiting Coordinator): Jackson returned to the program recently, bringing a wealth of experience from his time as a head coach elsewhere. His role in navigating the transfer portal and high school recruiting is vital for the program's long-term health.
  • Jason Howell (Director of Pitching Performance): Howell focuses on the analytical side of pitching, utilizing technology to optimize player development and game planning.

How the 2026 Roster Was Built: Recruiting and Transfers

The 2026 roster is the result of a deliberate three-pronged approach: retaining elite talent, high school recruiting, and targeted transfer portal acquisitions.

The High School Class

UNC remains a premier destination for North Carolina's top prep talent. Players like Matt McKnight (Charlotte) and Tyler Howe (Huntersville) chose to stay in-state despite interest from other major programs. The coaching staff’s ability to secure the "best in North Carolina" remains a key component of their recruiting philosophy.

The Junior College Pipeline

While less frequent than high school recruiting, the addition of Cooper Nicholson from Iowa Central Community College highlights UNC's willingness to look for "diamonds in the rough" in the JUCO ranks. Nicholson brings a level of maturity and game-readiness that is often found in players who have spent two years in the competitive JUCO environment.

Managing the Portal

In the 2026 offseason, UNC was more active in the transfer portal than in previous years. The focus was on "proven production." By bringing in players like Michael Maginnis and Colin Hynek from Georgia State, the staff added players who have already succeeded at the collegiate level, reducing the uncertainty often associated with true freshmen.

What to Expect from the Diamond Heels in 2026

With 20 returning players, the 2026 Diamond Heels possess a level of experience that is rare in the current college baseball climate. The team is expected to rely heavily on its weekend rotation and defensive stability in the middle infield.

Expectations for the season include:

  1. ACC Title Contention: Given the depth of the roster, anything less than a deep run in the ACC tournament would be seen as an underperformance.
  2. Home Field Advantage: Playing at Boshamer Stadium, the Diamond Heels will look to secure a top seed for the NCAA Regionals.
  3. Offensive Evolution: With new power threats like Owen Hull and Erik Paulsen, the team may shift toward a more aggressive, power-oriented offensive approach compared to previous seasons.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the UNC Baseball Roster

Who is the head coach of the UNC baseball team?

Scott Forbes is the head coach of the University of North Carolina baseball team. The 2026 season marks his sixth year in the role, having succeeded legendary coach Mike Fox.

How many newcomers are on the 2026 UNC baseball roster?

There are 16 newcomers on the 2026 roster. This includes six Division I transfers, one junior college transfer, and nine freshmen who signed out of high school.

Who are the top pitchers for UNC in 2026?

The pitching staff is led by juniors Jason DeCaro and Folger Boaz. Other key contributors include reliever Walker McDuffie and senior veterans Matthew Matthijs and Cameron Padgett.

Where can I see the UNC baseball team play?

The Diamond Heels play their home games at Bryson Field at Boshamer Stadium, located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Which transfer players joined UNC baseball for the 2026 season?

Key transfers for the 2026 season include catcher Macon Winslow (Duke), infielder Jake Schaffner (North Dakota State), outfielder Owen Hull (George Mason), and infielder Erik Paulsen (Stony Brook).

Summary of the 2026 Diamond Heels Roster

The 2026 UNC baseball roster is a meticulously constructed group designed to compete at the highest level of college baseball. By blending 20 experienced returners—including stars like Gavin Gallaher and Jason DeCaro—with 16 talented newcomers, Coach Scott Forbes has ensured that the Diamond Heels have both the depth and the star power required for a long postseason run. The strategic use of the transfer portal to fill specific needs at catcher and in the power-hitting department suggests a team that is not just talented, but well-balanced. As the season progresses, the integration of these new faces with the established core will be the primary factor in determining whether North Carolina can secure another ACC Championship and a trip to Omaha for the College World Series.