Hank Morgan - Manager
Hank Morgan, a native of Hampton, Virginia, spent his early years watching baseball legends like 14-year MLB second baseman Bret Boone take the field at War Memorial Stadium in the early 1990s when it was home to the Seattle Mariners’ single-A affiliate. This local connection to the game helped ignite Morgan’s passion for baseball, eventually leading him to a career that has become central to the Peninsula Pilots' success.
Morgan began his career in the Pilots’ front office, assuming general manager responsibilities before transitioning to the manager role in 2007. His first game came on July 11, 2007, in a rain-delayed, 17-inning marathon against the Petersburg Generals that didn’t end until 3 a.m. Although it was a tough road trip, the Pilots returned home with Morgan’s first of 438 wins—marking the start of a legacy that has shaped Hampton Roads baseball for over a decade.
Under Morgan's leadership, the Pilots claimed their only two Petitt Cup championships in 2013 and 2014, posting an impressive 74-37 record over those two seasons. His leadership didn’t stop there; Morgan led the Pilots to back-to-back victories over Team USA in 2014 and 2015, becoming the only manager in Coastal Plain League history to achieve this feat with an individual team. Only the CPL Select All-Star team has replicated this success, with other league teams holding a combined 0-22-1 record against Team USA.
In recognition of his significant contributions to Virginia baseball, Morgan was honored with the Bud Metheny Award, a prestigious accolade given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the sport.
A graduate of Hampton High School in 1995, Morgan went on to play baseball at Virginia Military Institute from 1995-1997 and Christopher Newport University from 1997-1999. His deep ties to the local baseball community, along with his dedication to player development, continue to make him a respected figure both on and off the field. His leadership remains instrumental in the Pilots' success and growth within the Coastal Plain League.