Raleigh: University of North Carolina Athletics Diamond Heels In MiLB: July 1

Former Tar Heels Shine in Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball closed out the first half of its 2024 season last week, with several former University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels making significant contributions to their teams. Four players celebrated first-half division titles, showcasing the talent that UNC continues to produce.

Division Title Winners

Kyle Datres played a key role in helping Hartford win the Northeast Division of the Eastern League, while Austin Bergner led Erie to the Southwest Division championship. Angel Zarate’s efforts contributed to Lake County’s victory in the East Division of the Midwest League, and Davis Palermo played a crucial role in Spokane capturing the Northwest League title.

Overall, UNC has 13 former players on Triple-A and Double-A rosters, with many more on the brink of promotion as they strive to make it to the Major Leagues.

Strong Legacy at UNC

The University of North Carolina has a rich tradition of producing Major League talent, with 74 players making it to the big leagues. The coaching acumen of former head coach Mike Fox and current head coach Scott Forbes has been instrumental in shaping the success of UNC baseball.

Since 2002, 34 former Tar Heels have reached the Major Leagues, a testament to the program’s commitment to developing top-tier athletes.

Tar Heels Standouts in Triple-A

Several UNC alumni are making waves in Triple-A this season. Skye Bolt, Kent Emanuel, Trevor Kelly, Brian Moran, Cody Roberts, and Logan Warmoth are among the standout performers in the top tier of minor league baseball.

Skye Bolt

Outfielder Skye Bolt, currently playing for the Gwinnett Stripers in the Atlanta Braves organization, is showcasing his skills with a .217 batting average and 2 home runs in Triple-A.

Kent Emanuel

Left-handed pitcher Kent Emanuel is making an impact with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp in the Miami Marlins system, recording 26 strikeouts in 9 games.

Trevor Kelly

Right-handed pitcher Trevor Kelly has been a reliable arm for the Tacoma Rainiers in the Seattle Mariners organization, posting a 3.24 ERA and 37 strikeouts in 29 games.

Brian Moran

Another pitcher, Brian Moran, has been a key contributor for the Gwinnett Stripers with 41 strikeouts in 19 appearances.

Cody Roberts

Catcher Cody Roberts is swinging a hot bat for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs in the Philadelphia Phillies organization, boasting a .323 batting average and 6 doubles.

Logan Warmoth

Third baseman Logan Warmoth, playing for the Reno Aces in the Arizona Diamondbacks system, is showcasing his versatility with 4 stolen bases and solid defensive play.

Future Stars in Double-A and Single-A

UNC alumni are also impressing in Double-A and Single-A, with players like Austin Bergner, Kyle Datres, Caleb Roberts, and Max Carlson making their mark on the minor league circuit.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these former Tar Heels as they continue their journey towards the pinnacle of professional baseball.