The UNC baseball program officially finalized its new staff under new head coach Scott Forbes on Monday, with Jason Howell joining the team and current assistants Jesse Wierzbicki and Bryant Gaines each earning promotions.

Howell — who played for the Diamond Heels in 2001 and served on the staff from 2005-07 — comes to the program after serving as a scouting supervisor for the Chicago White Sox. Prior to his time in Chicago, he spent seven years at Georgia Tech–spending time as both the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator.

“Jason has recruited and coached at the highest level and we are lucky to have him return to UNC,” Forbes said. “He was well respected as a player at UNC and was known for his work ethic and team first attitude. Jason is a great friend and I am thankful to be able to work alongside him.”

Forbes named Wierzbicki as the hitting coach, with his role also including numerous recruiting duties and leadership of UNC’s analytical team.

He has spent the last five seasons helping develop the Tar Heel hitters, helping produce top-tier MLB draft picks like Logan Warmoth, Brian Miller, Michael Busch and Aaron Sabato.

“I’m honored and excited to continue working for Carolina Baseball, a program I’m proud to have been a part of as a player and coach for a number of years,” Wierzbicki said. “My family and I are blessed to have been given this opportunity by Coach Forbes, and we’re excited about what the future holds for not only us, but all of our players, alumni, staff and fans.”

Gaines, meanwhile, received the top promotion — earning the title of assistant head coach and recruiting coordinator. He will also continue to lead the Tar Heel pitching staff.

Another former UNC player, Gaines had his first season in charge of the Tar Heel pitchers cut short by COVID-19. He had previously been the pitching coach at Liberty from 2017-19, working for former UNC assistant coach Scott Jackson.

“I recruited Bryant in 2006 and he was part of a special recruiting class that helped our program get where it is today. Bryant is tireless and driven, both as a recruiter and pitching coach, and I am fortunate to have him as my assistant head coach,” Forbes said.

Forbes recently took over the head coaching role following the retirement of Mike Fox, who had spent the last 22 years at the helm of his alma mater.

 

Photo via UNC Athletics

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