From the Big Leagues to the Bacon: Former MLB Pitcher Jesse Litsch Takes Over in Macon
Ex–Blue Jays arm brings major-league experience and player-first philosophy to the Macon Bacon dugout
MACON, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – The offseason is sizzling in Bibb County as the Macon Bacon have hired former Major League Baseball pitcher Jesse Litsch as their new head coach. A move that brings both big-league experience and a renewed focus on player development to Historic Luther Williams Field.
Litsch, who pitched five seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, called the opportunity to lead the Bacon a “no-brainer.”
“I’m Jesse Litsch, ex-MLB player, pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, and just a baseball guru,” Litsch said. “I love being around the game and trying to help the next wave get better.”
A 24th-round draft pick by Toronto in 2004, Litsch made his MLB debut in 2007 and went on to post a 27–27 record, 4.16 ERA, and 239 strikeouts before injuries cut short his career. His time on the mound included two complete-game shutouts in 2008, ranking among the American League leaders that season.
After undergoing seven surgeries, Litsch turned to coaching, working as a rehab pitching coach for the Atlanta Braves, then managing in the MLB Draft League, and most recently leading the Sanford River Rats to a 26-3 record in the Florida Collegiate Summer League.
Now, his next chapter unfolds in Macon, one of the most historic minor-league ballparks in the country.
“For me, it’s everything,” Litsch said, reflecting on his new home at Luther Williams Field. “To be on a field where legends played, including Jackie Robinson, is amazing. I’ve seen the sellout crowds, the fan base, the energy — it’s something I’m really looking forward to.”
But beyond nostalgia, Litsch’s focus is clear: development first, winning second – with the belief that success will follow the right kind of roster.
“You can have all the talent in the world, but if you’re not a good teammate or person, it doesn’t go far,” he said. “I wasn’t the most talented, but I always had the hunger to get better. That’s what I want these kids to have, the drive to learn, to improve, to want it.”
That hunger will guide his recruiting this offseason as he begins building the Bacon’s 2026 roster.
“I’ve talked to a bunch of colleges,” Litsch said. “I’m picky about who I bring in because I want a good group that gels together. Winning usually follows that, but the main mindset is development, getting them ready for college or pro ball, and beyond.”
As Litsch prepares to bring his trademark energy and experience to Macon, he has one final message for fans ready to pack the park again next summer.
“Macon, let’s get ready! We’re going to have some fun this year,” Litsch said. “The guys coming in are going to have a blast. Be a good fan base like you always are, and we’re going to have some fun.”
The 2026 Coastal Plain League season opens next May, starting the ninth season for the Macon Bacon program, and marking a new era for the Bacon under their big-league boss.
