By Matt Present for App State Sports. BOONE, N.C. — Jacob “Hub” Roberts has been named App State Baseball’s Director of Operations, Head Coach Kermit Smith announced on Friday.
Roberts brings over a decade of experience in working with college and professional baseball programs to Boone. While earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Oklahoma State University, Roberts was an integral part of the baseball staff, beginning his time as the Equipment Manager in 2017, before being promoted to Assistant Director of Baseball Operations in 2019.
Roberts impacted a variety of facets of the Oklahoma State program, including coordinating team travel, planning recruiting visits, overseeing the utilization of video and analytics programs, and facilitating academic support for student-athletes.
“I am super excited to have Hub join our staff,” Smith said. “His skill set and references really set him apart from the rest of the applicant pool. He brings a wealth of experience in professional and college baseball to the High Country. I look forward to hitting the ground running with Hub as we prep for the 2023 season.”
A native of Birmingham, Ala., Roberts began working in baseball operations for the Birmingham Barons (White Sox Double-A affiliate) in 2012 as an assistant clubhouse manager. He served in that role through the 2017 season, and in 2021 the White Sox hired him to work as a Minor League Equipment and Clubhouse Manager at their spring training complex in Phoenix, Ariz. during their instructional league and Arizona Fall League play.
In addition to his work on the diamond, Roberts also possesses multimedia skills, working in journalism and graphic design. During his time in Stillwater, he served as a multimedia content producer for Pioneer Media, producing game stories, graphics, and video highlights.
What they’re saying about Roberts…
“I’m so thrilled for Hub. I know he will bring great energy to the program at App State and his talents will enhance the program. Coach Smith and the boys got a good one!”
-Josh Holliday – Head Baseball Coach, Oklahoma State
“I’ve known Hub since early on in my professional career. His selfless attitude and attention to detail played a vital role in every locker room he was associated with. Hub is always willing to go the extra mile for those around him and I think his impressive resumé is indicative of that mentality. I am excited he is a part of the Mountaineer family and look forward to watching him help Coach Smith continue to build a premier program.”
-Jeremy Dowdy – Catcher, Chicago White Sox Organization (App State class of 2012)
“Hub is a great addition to the staff at App State. He brings over a decade of experience at the pro and collegiate level to the program. His personality and work ethic are infectious. I have no doubt he’ll be a great fit, both to the baseball program and to the community.”
-Jay Barnhouse – Charlotte Knights Visiting Clubhouse Manager
