A New Chapter in the Dugout
Nick Bennett, a 2016 graduate of Moeller High School and former pitcher in the Milwaukee Brewers minor league system, has shifted his focus from the mound to the coaching staff at Kent State University after a Tommy John surgery in late 2025 halted his playing career.
Now serving as an assistant pitching coach and Director of Pitching Development, Bennett has reunited with his former Louisville catcher Zeke Pinkham and former teammate Kade McClure, who is now coaching at Mercer University, creating a familiar network that he hopes will translate into on‑field success.
The Golden Flashes finished the 2026 season with a 42‑15 overall record and a 24‑9 mark in the Mid‑American Conference, a strong showing that fell just one game short of an NCAA Tournament berth.
Season Highlights and Missed Opportunities
Bennett’s own collegiate pedigree includes appearances in the College World Series in 2017 and 2019, where he crossed paths with future MLB pitcher Nick Lodolo; Lodolo has recalled watching Bennett’s outing against Louisville in 2017, a moment that helped seal Lodolo’s commitment to TCU.
Although his rehab program limits his pitching activity to light tosses, Bennett remains optimistic about a possible return to the rotation and continues to follow the Cincinnati Reds, drawing inspiration from past College World Series experiences, including defeats to Florida and TCU in 2017.
With a blend of professional experience, strategic mentorship, and a clear vision for development, Bennett aims to guide the Golden Flashes back to the national stage and perhaps one day resume his own pitching career.