Josh Hopper Takes the Helm of Coastal Carolina's Pitching Staff
The university announced this week that Josh Hopper will serve as the new pitching coach for the Chanticleers, tasked with revitalizing a staff that has seen several key departures in recent months.
Hopper arrives after a two‑decade career that includes stints with the Pittsburgh Pirates and roles at Dallas Baptist University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Berry College, where he helped shape nine players who would later be selected in the MLB Draft.
His appointment follows the exit of Matt Williams, who left to join former head coach Kevin Schnall at South Carolina, and the subsequent move of Schnall to the Gamecocks on a five‑year, $7 million contract after guiding Coastal Carolina to a 56‑win season and a appearance in the 2025 College World Series finals.
A New Era Under Chris Lemonis
Head coach Chris Lemonis praised Hopper’s blend of professional experience and college development, noting that the coach’s work with prospects like Paul Skenes positions the program for continued growth.
The move is seen as part of a broader strategy to maintain the Chanticleers’ competitive edge in the highly contested Sun Belt Conference, as the team looks to build on its recent successes and contend for another postseason run.