Justin Miknis, a former Kent State University baseball player and two‑time MLB draft selection, has returned to the Golden Flashes as an assistant coach. His arrival marks the culmination of a playing career that blended collegiate success with professional development in the Pirates' system.
A Collegiate Legacy of Excellence
During his three seasons at Kent State, Miknis earned All‑MAC First Team honors in 2023 and All‑MAC Second Team in 2022. He graduated with a degree in general business in May 2023, having hit .319 overall, launched 20 home runs and drove in 117 runs. Those statistics reflect a consistent offensive presence that helped the program regain prominence.
Professional Journey and Community Impact
The Pirates drafted Miknis in the 16th round of the 2023 MLB Draft, following a redshirt junior season that showcased his leadership both on and off the field. He spent two seasons (2023–2025) as a catcher in the organization, earning the Roberto Clemente Award in 2024 for his contributions to community outreach and team morale. From August 2025 to July 2026, he served as a player development coach, refining strategies and mentoring younger talent.
From High School Star to Coach
Before his collegiate career, Miknis excelled at DuBois Central Catholic High School, where he scored 1,478 points and was named Courier‑Express Player of the Year. He also led the school’s baseball team to a D9 title in 2016, snapping a 15‑year drought with a decisive double. Those early achievements forged a connection to the region that he now brings back to the university.
Looking Ahead with the Golden Flashes
Miknis rejoined Kent State alongside longtime mentors Coach Duncan and Coach Birkbeck, forming a coaching trio that blends fresh professional insight with deep institutional knowledge. Their shared vision emphasizes player development, strategic acumen and community engagement, aiming to elevate the program’s competitiveness while preserving the culture that defined Miknis’s own collegiate experience.