A-State Unveils Plans for State-of-the-Art Baseball Player Development Center
The transformation of Arkansas State baseball’s home continues to gain momentum.
The university announced Friday that plans are moving forward for a 40,000-square-foot Baseball Player Development Center, a next-generation training hub that will overlook right field at Tomlinson Stadium and the Slayton Family Field.
The new two-level facility represents the latest milestone in A-State’s ongoing effort to modernize its baseball complex—an evolution that began with the installation of a new turf playing surface and videoboard ahead of the 2025 season.
For Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Chris Pezman, the project is about more than brick and steel—it’s about building a foundation for sustained excellence.
“Building a championship-caliber program requires dedication, vision, and the right resources,” Pezman said. “Establishing a new baseball practice facility is more than just an upgrade—it’s a vital step forward in creating an environment where excellence thrives and athletes are empowered to reach their full potential.”
The Player Development Center is expected to feature a host of state-of-the-art amenities, including a full turf infield, three batting cages, three pitching tunnels, a weight room, and multi-purpose meeting areas. Offices for coaches and staff will be incorporated into the design, along with premium seating and an indoor club space that will overlook the field—adding an entirely new fan experience to game days in Jonesboro.
Pezman said the project reflects a long-term commitment to giving Red Wolves baseball the resources to compete at the highest level.
“This planned facility will serve as the foundation for our pursuit of championships,” he said. “Together, we are investing in a future where our program stands among the very best.”
Head coach Mike Silva said the new facility will have a transformative effect on every part of the program—from player development to recruiting.
“This project will have long-term implications on the growth of our baseball program,” Silva said. “The proposed facility will allow for player development all year as well as access to equipment we didn’t have before. The recruiting impact is monumental, and it will have a positive effect on all areas of our program.”
Silva added that the facility is not just an investment in the current team, but in the future of Red Wolves baseball for years to come.
“I’m excited not only for our players and staff, but for everyone who supports our program,” Silva said. “We’re grateful for the many community leaders helping make this vision a reality.”
Beyond its impact on the players, the new space will also bring enhanced amenities for fans. Plans include a premium outdoor-seating area and a climate-controlled indoor club for game days, as well as flexible spaces for private and corporate events when the Red Wolves aren’t on the field.
A-State Chancellor Dr. Todd Shields said the project reflects the power of community support and shared vision.
“This is truly a community project that wouldn’t be possible without the assistance of many great A-State supporters,” Shields said. “The construction of this planned facility is a testament to what we can accomplish as One Pack, and continues the momentum we have under Coach Silva’s leadership.”
Architectural renderings have been completed by MNB Architects, and CNI Construction Network, Inc. of Jonesboro is set to begin work pending approval by the Arkansas State University System Board of Trustees.
The project will be funded entirely through private contributions, part of the One Pack strategy between Arkansas State University and the Red Wolves Foundation.
Dr. Brendan Kelly, president of the A-State University System, said the facility will elevate both the university and the community that surrounds it.
“The advancement of a campus with facilities like this one produces elevation both for student-athletes and the community at large,” Kelly said. “We’re committed to a competitive athletics program and are grateful for the ongoing financial and fan support that make projects like this possible.”
Supporters who wish to contribute to the Player Development Center project can visit RedWolv.es/BaseballFacility or contact the Red Wolves Foundation at 870-972-2541 for more information.