In this episode, we sit down with Matt Gilbertson, former All-ACC and All-Region pitcher at the University of Pittsburgh and one of the fastest-rising minds in college baseball player development. Matt’s journey through the game has taken him from junior college standout to ACC ace, from professional pitcher to developer of MLB talent, and now into a key coaching role at UNC Asheville.

A Henderson, Nevada native, Matt begins by walking us through his early baseball days, his recruiting process, and how he earned his way from the College of Southern Nevada to Pitt. We dive into his playing career in the ACC—what it takes to succeed in one of the most demanding conferences in college baseball, how he developed on the mound, and what separated him during his time as a Panther.

From there, Matt breaks down his transition into coaching, including his time as Associate Head Coach, Pitching Coach, and Recruiting Coordinator at the University of Saint Katherine, where he gained valuable experience working in the NAIA. He then shares insight into his return to Pitt as Director of Player Development, where he led analytics efforts, managed summer ball placement, and helped guide multiple pitchers to professional contracts.

We close the episode with Matt’s current role at UNC Asheville, discussing his first fall with the program, his vision for the pitching staff, and how the Bulldogs approach recruiting. Matt offers clear advice for players looking to get recruited, the traits he values most in pitchers, and how athletes can position themselves to earn opportunities at the next level.

This episode provides a detailed look at the modern path through college baseball—from recruiting and development to analytics, coaching, and professional preparation—through the lens of someone who has experienced every step firsthand.