Arizona baseball announced this week that Jack Meggs, the 31‑year‑old associate head coach at Saint Mary’s, will join the Wildcats as its new hitting coach. The hiring follows a season in which the team posted a .256 team batting average, a steep decline from the .327 average that helped the 2025 squad reach the College World Series.
Meggs brings a proven track record of offensive production. Under his guidance, the Saint Mary’s offense ranked third nationally with a .327 batting average, while also topping the nation in doubles and triples. His players combined speed with power, a combination the Wildcats hope to emulate.
Revamping the Wildcats’ lineup
The new coaching staff plans to prioritize a leadoff hitter who can set the table and a versatile middle‑order bat that can drive in runs. Meggs will have a significant say in shaping the roster’s composition, from the top of the order to the bottom.
Before stepping into coaching, Meggs played outfield for the Washington Huskies from 2014 to 2017 and was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 2017. He spent three seasons in professional baseball before turning to coaching, a transition that gave him a deep understanding of both the swing mechanics and the mental approach at the plate.
Saint Mary’s has captured the West Coast Conference Tournament for the past two seasons under Meggs’ leadership, underscoring his ability to win in high‑stakes games. That experience should translate well to the Pac‑12 stage, where the Wildcats aim to return to the national conversation.
Fans can expect a more aggressive approach at the plate, as Meggs emphasizes getting on base and taking extra bases. The staff also hopes to develop hitters who can adapt to different pitching styles, a skill that was lacking in the previous season’s lineup.
A new offensive philosophy
Meggs’ philosophy centers on disciplined swing selection and exploiting the whole field. He believes that a balanced lineup, capable of mixing contact with occasional power, will generate the runs needed to compete in the tough Pac‑12 schedule.
The hiring comes at a time when Arizona’s program is looking to rebound quickly. With a strong recruiting pipeline and a history of success, the Wildcats hope that the addition of Meggs will accelerate the turnaround and restore the offensive firepower that defined their recent successes.
While the team’s recent performance was marred by a low batting average, the front office remains confident that Meggs’ expertise will translate into tangible results on the field. The next season will serve as a litmus test for the new hitting strategy.
In addition to his on‑field duties, Meggs will collaborate with the university’s athletic department and alumni network to enhance player development resources. His connections at Saint Mary’s and within the college baseball community are expected to open new avenues for talent acquisition and mentorship.