News Summary
Kevin Vance has been named the head coach for the San Diego State baseball program as it undergoes a significant roster overhaul. With a successful coaching background, including a stint at the University of Arizona, Vance aims to revitalize the Aztecs, who have struggled in recent years. The coaching staff has also seen additions, enhancing the team’s potential as 19 transfers, including notable players from power programs, join for the spring season. This marks an important transition for SDSU baseball, as they strive for success and stability.
San Diego – Kevin Vance has been appointed as the head coach of the San Diego State (SDSU) baseball program, marking a significant transition for the team as it undertakes a major roster overhaul. The announcement was made by SDSU Director of Athletics John David Wicker.
Vance returns to San Diego after a successful stint as an assistant coach at the University of Arizona, where he was instrumental in leading the team to an 80-44 record and a spot in the NCAA Men’s College World Series in 2025. This achievement highlighted his capability in nurturing talent and guiding teams to success on a national level.
As a dual-sport athlete, Vance’s roots in San Diego run deep. He was a two-way prep star at Torrey Pines High School, where he made a name for himself both as a pitcher and a position player. His extensive coaching resume also includes previous roles at the University of Rhode Island and Boston College, further establishing his credentials in collegiate baseball.
In addition to Vance’s hiring, the Aztecs have bolstered their coaching staff by announcing the additions of three assistant coaches. Tyler Holt, who comes from Boston College, has four years of experience as a hitting coach and played professionally for the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds. Blake McDonald transitions from a graduate manager position at Arizona and was a catcher on the 2024 Wildcats roster. Kevin Heiss, who has served as a recruiting coordinator at Rhode Island for four seasons, will also be part of the new coaching setup.
The upcoming spring season will see significant changes in SDSU’s roster, with 19 transfers joining the team; notably, 14 players are coming from power programs. A large influx of talent includes seven transfers from Oregon State, representing various positions such as infielders and pitchers. Among the signed players are right-handers Carson Johnson and Bryce McKnight, who have prior experience pitching in relief under Vance. Additionally, local standout Trey Telfer is returning to San Diego after playing at Indiana, adding depth to the squad.
Vance’s appointment is particularly noteworthy as it marks the seventh head coach in SDSU’s baseball program history. The Aztecs have struggled in recent years, evident in their failure to make an NCAA regional appearance since 2018. The baseball program has experienced instability, with three coaching changes occurring in the past four years, in stark contrast to previous decades characterized by long-tenured coaches.
In rebuilding the team, Vance has emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to player development. This strategy focuses not just on baseball skills but also on fostering leadership qualities and personal growth among players. With his background and experience, Vance is poised to lead the Aztecs through this crucial transformation and looks forward to starting his work with the team to build a successful future.
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Additional Resources
- SDSU Baseball Names Kevin Vance Head Coach
- SDSU Athletics Plots New Direction for Baseball Program
- San Diego State Removes Shaun Cole as Head Baseball Coach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- Google Search: San Diego State baseball
