The Nacogdoches Niners are proud to announce the hiring of Michael “Mookie” Wilson as the team’s Pitching Coach for the upcoming season.
Wilson joins the Niners after spending the past two seasons (2024–2025) in the Mid America League as an Assistant Coach with the Texarkana Rhinos. Since the league’s inception in 2024, he has been an integral part of the Rhinos’ coaching staff and brings extensive experience in pitching development and player mentorship.
A native of Phoenix, Arizona, Wilson played high school baseball at perennial powerhouse Mountain Ridge High School and was recognized as a draft prospect by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2004. That same year, he won a National Championship representing Team USA.
Wilson’s collegiate career took him across the country, beginning at the University of the Southwest (NAIA) in Hobbs, New Mexico. He later continued his career at Eckerd College (NCAA Division II) in St. Petersburg, Florida, before finishing his collegiate career at California State University – Monterey Bay (NCAA Division II).
During his college career, Wilson stepped away from baseball to serve in the United States Army during the War on Terror. After completing his service, he returned to the field to finish his senior season and later played professionally with the Yuma Scorpions of the North American League. Wilson later returned to military service and concluded his career in 2019.
In addition to his coaching career, Wilson has spent more than a decade working as a private pitching instructor, helping develop pitchers at multiple levels of the game.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome “Mookie” to the Niners organization as our pitching coach,” said General Manager Jace Green. “His experience as a pitching instructor, combined with his leadership background and dedication to service, will be a tremendous asset to our players and our program.”
Field Manager Nikaylen Morrison, who helped lead the hiring process, also expressed his support for the addition to the staff.
“I’ve gotten to know Michael over the last year or so and I’ve also been able to see how he is coaching players,” Morrison said. “He knows how to speak to players and not through them, and he’s well aware of my philosophy of how I want an organization full of good people, not just good players. I trust Michael to have my back and the players’ backs just as much as we have his.”
Wilson also shared his excitement about joining the organization.
“I’m excited and blessed for the opportunity to lead these young men both on and off the field here in East Texas,” said Wilson. “I’m looking forward to building something special with the Niners.”
The Nacogdoches Niners continue to build a competitive roster and coaching staff as the organization prepares for the upcoming Mid America League season.
