Chris Hart has been appointed as the 17th head coach of NC State baseball, following a 22-year tenure within the program. Athletic Director Boo Corrigan praised Hart for his recruiting prowess and deep commitment to NC State. Hart expressed excitement about leading the program and building on its strong foundation laid by past coaches. Throughout his career, he has developed numerous MLB players and consistently ranked high in national recruiting classes.

By the Numbers
  • Hart has mentored 32 MLB draft picks since becoming the recruiting coordinator in 2010.
  • Under his guidance, NC State's recruiting classes ranked in the top five nationally three times: fourth in 2011 and 2012, and fifth in 2024.
Yes, But

While Hart's promotion comes with well-deserved recognition, some may question the decision to promote from within instead of conducting a broader search for external candidates. Concerns about the sustained success of the program could arise if Hart cannot navigate the challenges of head coaching.

State of Play
  • Hart takes over a program known for its offensive and defensive prowess, finishing third in NCAA fielding percentage in 2021.
  • NC State has shown a strong history of player development, including notable alumni like Trea Turner and recent draftees like Will Wilson and Patrick Bailey.
What's Next

Hart will focus on maintaining high player development standards while looking to elevate the team's national standing. He aims to strengthen recruiting efforts and enhance the program's competitive status in the ACC and NCAA. Future seasons may see NC State making a notable push for more postseason successes under Hart's leadership.

Bottom Line

Hart's appointment is significant for the continuity of the NC State baseball program, showcasing the importance of internal talent and the commitment to excellence. His extensive experience and previous successes suggest a promising future, but the pressure is on to achieve results quickly.