The UNC Asheville baseball team officially welcomed the 2026 season with its annual ‘Baseball’ Night on January 16, held at Highland Brewing Company. The event brought together players, coaches, friends, family members, alumni and fans for an evening dedicated to celebrating the program and supporting the upcoming season.
Baseball Night featured a variety of fundraising and engagement activities designed to strengthen the connection between the team and the community. A silent auction included notable items such as two signed football helmets autographed by Jamar Chase and Jared Goff, as well as a handmade quilt created by Athletic Advisor Rebecca Nelms and signed by the entire team. Additional auction items and donations helped raise funds that will directly benefit the program throughout the season. Guests were also encouraged to contribute equipment such as bats, baseballs and postgame meals, providing practical support for student-athletes.
The event serves as a significant social and financial opportunity for the UNC Asheville baseball program, allowing donors to play an active role in supporting the team’s success. In addition to fundraising efforts, the evening included an interview segment welcoming the program’s new head coach, who previously served as an assistant coach. The strong turnout from alumni and donors highlighted the continued investment and pride in the Bulldogs baseball tradition.
One current player, Caiden Chilausky, emphasized the importance of the event for the team.
“Having this kind of support from the community means a lot to us,” Chilausky said. “It motivates us going into the season and reminds us that we’re playing for more than just ourselves, we’re representing everyone who believes in this program.”
The Bulldogs also welcomed guest speaker Colin Moran, a former UNC baseball standout who played for the team from 2011 to 2013. Moran earned numerous accolades during his collegiate career, including National Freshman of the Year, ACC Freshman of the Year and All-American honors in 2011. He was later selected in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2016 Major League Baseball draft and went on to play six seasons in the MLB with the Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds. His presence served as inspiration for current players as they prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the new season.
The UNC Asheville baseball team was recently predicted to finish last out of 9 in the conference according to the 2026 Big South baseball preseason poll. The players took this as motivation to prove otherwise and will take this hunger, drive and determination to the field this season.
