FAIRFAX, Va. - The George Mason baseball team has announced several coaching changes for the upcoming 2012 season.

Steve Hay has been promoted to associate head coach, while Lucas Jones will see increased responsibilities in his role as an assistant coach. Additionally, Daniel Rollins joins the team as a volunteer assistant coach and Ben Kaplan will serve as the director of baseball operations.

Hay, in his sixth season with the Patriots, will take on the title of associate head coach. He will continue to serve as the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator.

"During Steve's five years at Mason we have seen great strides in the growth of the program as a whole," stated Head Coach Bill Brown. "His promotion recognizes the impact he has had on our program and is a reflection of his hard work and dedication."

A member of the coaching staff for the second season, Jones will continue to serve as the team's hitting and infield coach in addition to acting as the third base coach. Additionally, Jones will take on an increased role with recruiting and offensive gameday management.

"Lucas has earned his expanded roles through his expertise and work ethic," said Brown. "I am extremely confident turning over the position players to him, his offensive philosophy meshes completely with the players and program goals."

Joining the Patriots this season is Volunteer Assistant Coach Daniel Rollins, who will assist Coach Jones with team offensive preparation while working with outfielders. He will also act as the first base coach. Rollins comes to Fairfax after spending last season as an assistant coach at Randolph-Macon College, his alma mater, where he was responsible for recruiting and working with outfielders and hitters.

"Daniel has been a great addition to our program and I look forward to him playing a big part in our success," remarked Brown.

Also joining Mason will be Director of Baseball Operation Ben Kaplan. In his role, Kaplan will be responsible for assisting in all aspects of the program including helping to organize recruiting, developing scouting reports and coordinating team video. A native of Fairfax, Kaplan played collegiate baseball at Washington College and has spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach at W.T. Woodson High School in Fairfax.

"Baseball operations is a new position this year and I am excited Ben is a part of our staff," said Brown. "His help has already been invaluable and I look forward to the future as his role develops."

Mason returns to the diamond on February 17, traveling to face Appalachian State as a part of the Elon Tournament on the campus of Elon University.