Scott Forbes: A Profile of Leadership and Success at North Carolina Baseball

Since taking the helm as the 25th head baseball coach at the University of North Carolina, Scott Forbes has cemented his status as a pivotal figure in Tar Heel athletics. As the program navigates the 2026 season, Forbes continues to build upon a foundation of consistency, development, and high-level performance that has defined his tenure in Chapel Hill.

A Legacy of Coaching Excellence

Scott Forbes officially assumed the role of head coach on August 7, 2020. His appointment marked a significant milestone for the program, as he brought a wealth of institutional knowledge to the position. The 2026 season represents his 29th year as a college coach and his 25th year on the Tar Heel coaching staff, reflecting a rare level of dedication to a single institution.

Before his elevation to the head coaching role, Forbes served in multiple capacities within the program, including associate head coach, hitting coach, pitching coach, and recruiting coordinator. This extensive background has allowed him to foster a comprehensive approach to player development, which has yielded tangible results on the field.

Impact on the Tar Heel Program

Under Forbes’ leadership, the North Carolina baseball program has maintained a trajectory of sustained success. During his first five seasons as head coach, the Tar Heels amassed a 200–104 record. His teams have consistently reached the postseason, securing NCAA Tournament appearances in all five years of his tenure—a feat unmatched in the history of the program.

Key achievements during his leadership include:

• Tournament Success: Three Super Regional appearances and one trip to the College World Series.
• Conference Dominance: Winning an ACC Coastal Division title and two ACC Tournament championships.
• Individual Development: Nine Tar Heels have received All-America honors under his tutelage, with five players earning Freshman All-America recognition.

Forbes has also proven adept at preparing student-athletes for the professional level. During his tenure, 21 of his players have been selected in the MLB Draft, including notable first-round picks Vance Honeycutt and Luke Stevenson.

Key Takeaways: The Forbes Era

• Consistency: Forbes is the only coach in UNC program history to lead the team to the NCAA Tournament in each of his first five seasons.
• Institutional Knowledge: With 25 years on the Tar Heel staff, Forbes possesses an unmatched understanding of the program’s culture and expectations.
• Player Development: His emphasis on recruitment and individual growth has resulted in a consistent pipeline of talent reaching the professional ranks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Scott Forbes been with the North Carolina baseball program?

The 2026 season marks Scott Forbes’ 25th year on the Tar Heel coaching staff. He has served in various roles, including assistant coach, associate head coach, and, since 2020, head coach.

What are some of the program’s notable accomplishments under Forbes?

During his time as head coach, the team has achieved an overall record of 200–104, secured two ACC Tournament championships, one ACC Coastal Division title, and has made five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.

What is Scott Forbes’ background before becoming head coach?

Forbes played college baseball at Middle Georgia College and North Carolina Wesleyan College. His coaching career includes stints at Winthrop and a long-standing tenure at North Carolina, where he worked as an assistant coach for 14 years before succeeding Mike Fox as head coach in 2020.

As Forbes enters this latest chapter of his career, his focus remains on maintaining the competitive standard that has become synonymous with North Carolina baseball. With a proven track record of recruiting talent and guiding players to both academic and athletic milestones, he remains a cornerstone of the Tar Heel coaching staff.