A group of 11 alumni and donors has formed the Central Michigan Baseball GM Council with a single, ambitious objective: to lift the Chippewas program to a level of sustained national prominence.
At the helm of the initiative is Central Michigan University coach Jake Sabol, who serves as the council’s chief executive officer, while Devan Kline, a former CMU standout and founder of the national fitness brand Burn Boot Camp, acts as the council’s general manager. Kline’s own journey — from playing at CMU between 2006 and 2009 under coach Steve Jaksa to signing a professional contract with the San Francisco Giants as an undrafted free agent — fuels his commitment to give back to the university that shaped him.
The council’s strategy hinges on aligning the program with the latest NCAA framework while pursuing competitive excellence. By leveraging the expertise of former players and coaches, the group aims to modernize recruiting, enhance player development and secure resources that can sustain success on the national stage.
Beyond the field, the council emphasizes community impact, seeking to strengthen ties between the university, its alumni network and the broader baseball ecosystem. Their vision includes mentorship programs, outreach initiatives and fundraising efforts that will support scholarships and facility upgrades.
If realized, the effort could reshape the trajectory of CMU baseball, positioning the Chippewas among the contenders for conference titles and NCAA tournament appearances, and reinforcing the university’s reputation as a breeding ground for talent both on and off the diamond.
A New Era for Chippewa Baseball
The council’s composition reflects a deep well of experience, bringing together voices that have excelled in professional leagues, business leadership and coaching, all united by a common goal of elevating the program for future generations.