Winston-Salem, N.C. — A new chapter begins for Carolina University Baseball as the Bruins prepare to open the 2026 season under the direction of Associate Head Coach Logan Conklin, a former Bruin student-athlete who now steps into the role of leading on-field coaching decisions.
After serving as Head Coach, Jarrett Miller transitions into a new position as Director of Baseball Operations, continuing to support the program's growth and development behind the scenes. Conklin's promotion signals both continuity and fresh energy, as he is joined by a staff deeply rooted in Carolina University baseball tradition.
Former Bruin Hunter Rhineberger will oversee the pitching staff, while JP Kehoe and Josh Kent also return to the program in coaching roles after their playing careers at Carolina. Rounding out the staff is Graduate Assistant Coach Avery Adams, another former Carolina player, giving the Bruins a coaching unit built on program culture and firsthand experience in the navy and gold.
Turning the Page to 2026
Following a challenging 9–32 campaign in 2025, the Bruins enter 2026 with renewed momentum and optimism. Conklin and his staff return 28 players from last season's roster while adding 11 transfers and 13 freshmen, blending veteran leadership with an infusion of new talent.
Among the returners, the Bruins will rely heavily on the experience and production of:
This core group is expected to set the tone offensively and provide leadership throughout the lineup.
Strength on the Mound
On the pitching side, Carolina will look to established arms and key newcomers to anchor the staff. Returning pitchers Alex Prevost and Caden Ross are poised for significant roles, while transfers Jasean Brown and Kolden Hunter add depth and competitiveness to the rotation and bullpen.
With Rhineberger guiding the pitching development, the Bruins anticipate strides in command, depth, and overall mound performance.
Season Opening Adjustments
Originally scheduled to open the season January 30–31 against Bluefield, the Bruins saw their start delayed due to two weeks of winter weather in the region.
Carolina will now officially launch the 2026 campaign on the road Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, traveling to face Spartanburg Methodist. Both days will feature doubleheaders beginning at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
A Program Built on Brotherhood
With a coaching staff composed almost entirely of Carolina alumni and a roster featuring a strong returning nucleus, the Bruins enter 2026 focused on growth, accountability, and restoring competitive success.
Coach Logan Conklin thoughts on this season, "We're incredibly excited about the season ahead and the direction of our program. This group has embraced the work that's been put in from the fall through preseason, and there's a renewed energy and accountability throughout the clubhouse. Returning a strong core from last year while adding talented transfers and freshmen gives us a great balance of experience and new impact pieces. Our expectations are to compete every time we step on the field, continue building our culture, and take meaningful steps forward as a program. I'm proud of how our guys have prepared, and we're ready to get the season underway."
The Conklin era begins not just with a new season—but with a renewed vision grounded in Bruin tradition and driven toward the future.
