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UNC Lands Top Transfer Talent: Erik Paulsen Commits to Tar Heels Over LSU, WVU, and Tennessee
The University of North Carolina continues to build a national powerhouse on the diamond, landing one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal. Erik Paulsen, a standout two-way player from Stony Brook, has committed to the Tar Heels, choosing Chapel Hill over high-profile programs like LSU, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
Paulsen’s decision is a major win for head coach Scott Forbes and the UNC baseball staff. The 6’3″, 217-pound left-hander brings elite production at the plate, strong defensive tools, and intriguing potential on the mound. His versatility and experience will be key assets as the Tar Heels reload for another run at Omaha.
A Breakout Star at Stony Brook
Paulsen emerged as a true force in 2025, hitting .358 with nine home runs, 44 RBIs, and 17 doubles over 49 games. Even more impressive, he struck out just 12 times in nearly 200 plate appearances, showcasing exceptional plate discipline and contact ability. His performance earned him Coastal Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year honors after posting a .995 fielding percentage at first base.
While primarily used as a position player, Paulsen also made six relief appearances on the mound, where his left-handed arm remains a potential bonus for UNC.
Why Chapel Hill?
Paulsen’s decision to pick UNC speaks volumes about the direction of the Tar Heels’ program. Despite heavy interest from SEC powers and rising programs like West Virginia, the combination of immediate playing time, team culture, and UNC’s national profile ultimately won him over.
With the departure of veteran first baseman Hunter Stokely and several other core contributors, UNC had a clear opening for someone of Paulsen’s caliber to step in and make an impact right away.
Portal Strategy Paying Off
Paulsen is part of a strong group of portal additions for North Carolina this summer. He joins Colin Hynek (catcher, Georgia State), Michael Maginnis (outfielder, Georgia State), and Jake Schaffner (shortstop, North Dakota State), as UNC looks to bolster depth and replace key pieces from its 2025 Super Regional team.
UNC has fully embraced the transfer portal as a key piece of its roster-building strategy. Rather than simply filling gaps, the coaching staff has targeted players who can elevate the team’s ceiling—and Paulsen fits that mold perfectly.
What He Brings to UNC
High-contact hitting: With a near .360 average and minimal strikeouts, Paulsen adds reliability to the middle of the lineup.
Elite defense: His glove at first base offers stability and leadership on the infield.
Two-way potential: While UNC may use him primarily at the plate, his ability to pitch adds another layer of flexibility.
Outlook for 2026
UNC finished 2025 with a 46–15 record and a second straight trip to the Super Regionals. With Paulsen now in the fold, they not only fill a key roster need but gain a veteran presence who can help push them deeper into the postseason.
For the Tar Heels, this isn’t just a portal pickup—it’s a statement. Landing a player of Paulsen’s caliber shows that UNC is a top-tier destination in college baseball, and they’re not done building yet.
