Bold Move: No. 1 Overall Catcher and Two-Time College World Series Champion Rejects LSU, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt, Chooses UNC Tar Heels
In one of the most stunning recruiting decisions of the college baseball offseason, the nation’s No. 1 overall catcher—and two-time College World Series champion—has officially announced his commitment to the University of North Carolina. The blue-chip backstop, widely regarded as a generational talent behind the plate, chose the Tar Heels over powerhouse programs LSU, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt in what many are calling a program-defining moment for UNC baseball.
The star catcher, Jacob “J.T.” Romero, made his decision public via social media on Thursday afternoon, ending weeks of speculation and intense pursuit from some of the most dominant programs in the country. A native of Bradenton, Florida, and a product of a powerhouse JUCO program, Romero entered the transfer portal earlier this summer after winning his second consecutive national title with his previous team and immediately became the most coveted name on the market.
“Chapel Hill just felt like home,” Romero wrote in his announcement. “The coaches, the culture, and the opportunity to make an impact right away—it all lined up. I’ve been fortunate to win at the highest level, and now I want to bring that same energy, leadership, and winning mentality to North Carolina.”
Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 205 pounds, Romero is the total package. Behind the plate, he’s known for his elite arm strength, lightning-quick pop times, and ability to manage a pitching staff with veteran poise. Offensively, he’s a switch-hitter with power to both gaps, posting a .338 batting average, 15 home runs, and 62 RBIs in his last season. His leadership and postseason experience make him not just a recruit—but a cornerstone.
UNC head coach Scott Forbes couldn’t hide his excitement. “This is one of the biggest additions we’ve ever had,” Forbes said. “J.T. brings championship DNA to our locker room. He’s an elite competitor who makes everyone around him better. His decision to come here says a lot about what we’re building at Carolina.”
Romero’s commitment is already being hailed as a seismic shift in college baseball recruiting dynamics. Turning down programs like LSU—fresh off a national championship—Texas A&M’s SEC dominance, and Vanderbilt’s pitching pedigree speaks volumes about UNC’s growing national appeal and investment in becoming a consistent Omaha threat.
With Romero anchoring the battery, UNC instantly becomes one of the most balanced and dangerous teams in the nation heading into the 2025 season. His arrival also raises the bar for incoming and returning players alike, setting a new tone in Chapel Hill focused not just on contending—but winning it all.
“I’ve been to Omaha. I know what it takes,” Romero said. “Now it’s time to bring a title to Carolina Blue.”
With this bold commitment, UNC Baseball is no longer knocking on the door of greatness—they’re ready to kick it down.
