Carolina Softball has hired Laurin Watts as its new pitching coach, following her successful tenure at Southern Illinois. Coach Megan Smith Lyon emphasized the importance of finding the right leader for the bullpen and expressed her confidence in Watts' capabilities. Watts played a pivotal role in guiding one of the top pitching staffs in the Missouri Valley Conference, achieving significant team ERA results during her time there.

By the Numbers
  • Watts' SIU pitching staff recorded a team ERA of 2.91 in 2026, ranking second in the MVC.
  • Against MVC opponents, the staff achieved a remarkable ERA of 2.11, also securing second place in the league.
  • In her first season at SIU, the team finished with a 3.18 ERA, the second-best in the MVC.
State of Play
  • Watts has successfully transitioned from Southern Illinois to Carolina, bringing an impressive track record in player development.
  • She has been recognized for both her coaching skills and her ability to build player relationships.
What's Next

Watts is expected to implement her coaching strategies and relationships to quickly enhance the pitching staff at Carolina. Her past success suggests she will effectively recruit and develop talent within the program.

Bottom Line

The addition of Laurin Watts is a strategic move for Carolina Softball, positioning the program to strengthen its competitive edge in the conference. Her proven ability to foster talent will likely yield significant benefits both on the field and in player development.