The University of North Carolina’s 2025 baseball season officially began on Saturday night with the 17th annual First Pitch Dinner. Held at the Blue Zone’s Concourse Club, the event drew a record crowd of over 550 supporters.
Former Tar Heel and Seattle Mariners Gold Glove winner, Kyle Seager, was the keynote speaker. Seager was joined by veteran players Jackson Van De Brake and Jake Knapp, as well as head coach Scott Forbes. The evening also welcomed 40 current and 39 former players, alongside notable UNC coaches like Roy Williams, Erin Matson, Brian Kalbas, Mike Schall, and Mike Fox.
The event began with Dave Nathan, the voice of the Diamond Heels, who introduced Van De Brake. The senior took a formal approach in his speech, thanking individuals who contributed to the team’s success during last year’s College World Series run. He also spoke about the behind-the-scenes support that often goes unnoticed.
“We’re more excited than ever for this season,” said Van De Brake. “You’re going to have a lot of fun watching us play. So many people help our program, and many of them are here tonight.”
Knapp, a graduate student from Greensboro, shared his experience recovering from an injury that sidelined him for the 2024 season. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the UNC baseball program during his rehabilitation.
“The people here are special,” said Knapp. “If I ever needed anything, I know the Carolina baseball family would help me out.”
Forbes also addressed the crowd, expressing thanks to his coaching staff, the Dugout Club members, Rams Club members, and his family. He emphasized the hard work of the 2025 team and highlighted their training.
“This team works hard,” said Forbes. “You’ll like what you see on the field.”
Forbes outlined the five pillars guiding the program: humility, passion, service, thankfulness, and unity. He also reflected on last season’s achievements, which have contributed to UNC’s high winning percentage in the past 25 years.
The evening’s highlight came with Seager’s speech. He joked about reluctantly accepting the role after others declined and shared his journey from UNC to a decade-long career with the Mariners. Seager praised Coach Mike Fox for his influence on the program, citing Fox’s upcoming induction into the College Baseball Hall of Fame.
“You’re going to leave here as a better man,” Seager said. “That’s much bigger than baseball. Coach Fox instills that in all of us.”
Throughout the evening, live and silent auctions raised nearly $27,000 for the baseball program. Auction items included a signed Kyle Seager jersey, a UNC bat boy experience, a chance to travel with the team to Louisville, and a round of golf with Roy Williams.
Carter Hicks, Carolina Baseball’s director of player and program development, expressed gratitude for the record turnout and support.
“The First Pitch Dinner is always a great way to celebrate our program and start the season,” Hicks said. “We’re excited to build on the support from last season’s postseason run.”
The Tar Heels will open their 2025 season on February 14 against Texas Tech at 4 p.m.
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