Former MLB player named head coach of Macon Bacon, team says

A former MLB pitcher has been hired as the new head coach of the Macon Bacon, a team official announced Wednesday.

Jesse Litsch played professionally for the Toronto Blue Jays for eight years and will start coaching in the 2026 season for the Macon Bacon, a news release from the team said. The local summer collegiate baseball team in the Coastal Plain League is entering its ninth season.

“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,” Macon Bacon President Brandon Raphael said.

Litsch has at least four years of experience overseeing collegiate players.

He was the head coach of the Sanford River Rats in the Florida Collegiate Summer League, where his team scored a record of 26-3 this year.

He also managed the collegiate Williamsport Crosscutters in the MLB Draft League for two summers.

“We believe Jesse will bring his drive and winning spirit to Macon, helping us elevate our performance on the field and more importantly give these student-athletes a great experience during their time here in Middle Georgia,” Raphael said.

Litsch said he’s excited to take on a new chapter and lead the local young players.

“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,” Litsch said.

While playing in the majors, Litsch pitched for the Blue Jays from 2007-2011. In 2008, the right-hander threw two complete-game shutouts en route to recording a career-best 13 wins and a 3.58 earned-run average.