Macon Bacon Hire Former MLB Pitcher Jesse Litsch as Head Coach

Litsch has at least four years' experience coaching in summer collegiate baseball

MACON, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon Bacon have hired former Major League pitcher Jesse Litsch as their new head coach for the 2026 season, the team announced.

Litsch, who played eight years of professional baseball with the Toronto Blue Jays, appeared in 92 major league games between 2007 and 2011. He has spent the past four years coaching in the college summer ball circuit, including two seasons managing the Williamsport Crosscutters in the MLB Draft League. Most recently, he served as head coach of the Sanford River Rats in the Florida Collegiate Summer League, where he led the team to a 26-3 record in 2025.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jesse and his family to the Macon Bacon,” team president Brandon Raphael said. “His background as a Major Leaguer, combined with his dedication to mentoring players and giving back to the community, makes him a perfect fit for our organization.”

For Litsch, joining the Bacon marks the next step in his baseball career.

“I’m excited to join the Bacon family and lead a group of talented young players,” Litsch said. “This team has an incredible fan base and a strong presence in the community, and I look forward to building on that both on and off the field.”

The Bacon are heading into their ninth season in the Coastal Plain League.