Jake Schaffner hits first home run as a Tar Heel in UNC baseball's win over Richmond

Three years after getting only one D1 offer out of high school, the junior short stop is leading off for UNC.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Jake Schaffner, a junior shortstop for the University of North Carolina baseball team, hit his first home run as a Tar Heel in a 10-0 win over Richmond. Schaffner, a transfer from North Dakota State University, was an overlooked prospect coming out of high school but has since blossomed into a standout player, earning All-Summit League honors and the 2025 Summit League Defensive Player of the Year award.

Why it matters

Schaffner's journey from an underappreciated high school player to a key contributor for the 10th-ranked Tar Heels highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work in sports. His story also underscores the value of giving opportunities to players who may not fit the traditional mold, as his quiet leadership and determination have made him a valuable asset to the UNC baseball program.

The details

In the second inning of Tuesday's game, Schaffner hit a three-run home run to help lead the Tar Heels to a run-rule victory over Richmond. He finished the game 2-for-2 with two hit-by-pitches, showcasing his improved plate discipline and power. Schaffner's high school coach, Josh Shere, praised the junior's character and work ethic, attributes that have allowed him to overcome being overlooked by most schools coming out of high school.

  • Schaffner hit his first home run as a Tar Heel on Tuesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Schaffner was named the 2025 Summit League Defensive Player of the Year while at North Dakota State University.

The players

Jake Schaffner

A junior shortstop for the University of North Carolina baseball team who transferred from North Dakota State University, where he was a standout player and earned All-Summit League honors as well as the 2025 Summit League Defensive Player of the Year award.

Josh Shere

Schaffner's high school baseball coach, who praised the junior's character, work ethic, and determination, attributes that have allowed him to overcome being overlooked by most schools coming out of high school.

Scott Forbes

The head coach of the University of North Carolina baseball team, who believes Schaffner has a bright future and that his best baseball is still ahead of him.

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What they’re saying

“You can't measure the kid's heart, you just can't, and that's what all the scouts, that's what they all got wrong with him, because they didn't ever get to know his character, him as a person, his heart, his dedication.”

— Josh Shere, Schaffner's high school baseball coach (dailytarheel.com)

“I think he's gonna be a big leaguer, and I think his best baseball is in front of him. Obviously, we want it to be now as well, and man, there's no telling how good Jake Schaffner's gonna be because he's a great teammate, he cares about winning, but he's a worker.”

— Scott Forbes, Head coach, University of North Carolina baseball team (dailytarheel.com)

What’s next

Schaffner and the Tar Heels will look to build on their strong start to the season as they continue their non-conference schedule before beginning ACC play.

The takeaway

Schaffner's journey from an overlooked high school prospect to a key contributor for a top-10 college baseball program serves as an inspiring example of the power of perseverance and hard work. His story highlights the importance of giving opportunities to players who may not fit the traditional mold but possess the drive and determination to succeed at the highest levels.