Erik Paulsen has been a middle-of-the-order force for UNC
Erik Paulsen has emerged as a steady left-handed bat and clutch run-producer for North Carolina in the 2026 season, posting a .303 average with 11 home runs and 56 RBI across 67 starts, while earning Chapel Hill Regional MVP honors[3][4][5]. He brings legit middle-infield-level athleticism? No—he’s a 6-foot-3, 215-pound INF/1B type who wins with power, plate damage, and big-moment composure, including a 4-for-4, two-homer night against VCU and a decisive grand slam vs. NC State[1][2][15]. The intangible that jumps out: he’s been carrying emotional weight and still showing up in huge spots, which screams competitive toughness[6][13].
