Diamond Heels Reload With Talented Transfer and Freshman Class

UNC Baseball looks to replace lost production with new faces in the lineup

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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UNC Baseball is reloading for the 2026 season, bringing in a talented transfer and freshman class to replace key departures from last year's squad. Head Coach Scott Forbes has listed seven likely starters for opening day, including six new faces to the program. The lineup features a mix of experienced upperclassmen and promising young players who are expected to make an immediate impact.

Why it matters

After reaching the Super Regional round of the NCAA tournament last season, UNC is looking to build on that success and make a deep postseason run in 2026. The new-look lineup will be crucial to the team's chances, as they aim to replace the production of several key contributors from 2025 who have moved on.

The details

The projected starting lineup includes transfer Jake Schaffner at shortstop, junior Gavin Gallaher at second base, and transfer Owen Hull in center field. Other notable additions are catcher Macon Winslow, a transfer from Duke, and first baseman Erik Paulsen, who joins from Stony Brook. Freshman Tyler Howe is expected to start in the outfield, while the designated hitter and other outfield spot remain up for grabs between several candidates.

  • The 2026 season for UNC Baseball begins this Friday, February 14th.
  • Last season, the Diamond Heels reached the Super Regional round of the NCAA tournament before being eliminated.

The players

Scott Forbes

Head Coach of the UNC Baseball team.

Jake Schaffner

A transfer shortstop from North Dakota State who is expected to take over the leadoff spot in the lineup.

Gavin Gallaher

A junior and one of two team captains, Gallaher returns after leading the team in hits and RBIs last season.

Owen Hull

A transfer center fielder from George Mason who set a program record with 42 stolen bases in 2025.

Macon Winslow

A transfer catcher from Duke who will look to fill the void left by the departure of Luke Stevenson to the MLB.

Erik Paulsen

A transfer first baseman from Stony Brook who earned CAA Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.