Jake Minarik is UNC Asheville’s freshman bat-to-watch with pop and run production
In his 2025 freshman season, Jake Minarik emerged as one of UNC Asheville’s most productive everyday hitters, batting .317 with a team-high nine home runs, 32 RBI, and a .593 slugging percentage in 39 games. What makes him interesting is the blend of usable contact and legitimate pull-side power: he was third on the team in batting average while also finishing first in homers, which hints at a hitter who can impact games without needing a perfect swing. He looks like a strong fit for teams seeking an outfielder with offensive upside and middle-order juice.