San Diego State Coaching Board

(San Diego State athletics photo)

By Jake Mckeever and Andrew Riedell

Following a disappointing two-year tenure, San Diego State has officially parted ways with head coach Shaun Cole, who amassed a 38–76 record during his time at the helm. A former pitching coach at the University of Arizona, Cole is widely respected in coaching circles, and it's expected he’ll find another landing spot soon.

As the Aztecs begin their search for a new leader, several strong candidates emerge — each with distinct regional ties, proven track records, and potential to elevate the program.

Jay Uhlman – Tulane Head Coach

Jay Uhlman has quietly built a powerhouse in New Orleans, leading Tulane to back-to-back NCAA Regional appearances and coming within striking distance of a third. Despite challenges posed by high academic standards and limited NIL support, Uhlman has maximized Tulane’s potential, regularly developing MLB-caliber talent.

A native of Redondo Beach, Uhlman has spent most of his coaching career on the West Coast, and his deep ties to the region make him a natural fit for San Diego State. If the Aztecs are seeking a proven program builder with recruiting chops and regional familiarity, Uhlman should be their first call.

Brock Ungricht – University of San Diego Head Coach

Just 15 minutes down the road sits one of the region’s most underrated coaching minds. Brock Ungricht, has quietly turned San Diego into one of the most consistent midmajors. Back to Back WCC championships, tournament appearance in 3 of the last 4 years, the man knows how to win. Since taking the reins in 2021, Ungricht has compiled an impressive résumé, having already led the Toreros to a WCC-best 77–37 record as an assistant before being promoted.

A strong recruiter and player developer, Ungricht represents the most stable and familiar option. His success in the region, coupled with his established recruiting networks in Southern California, make him a safe and smart choice for SDSU.

Rich Dorman – Oregon State Pitching Coach

If San Diego State wants to make a bold, upside hire, Rich Dorman’s name must be on the board. Currently serving as Oregon State’s pitching coach, Dorman has earned national respect for his work developing elite arms. Over just five seasons, he’s coached seven All-Americans and guided Cooper Hjerpe to a National Pitcher of the Year honor in 2022 after a record-setting season.

Hiring an assistant is always as risk, but its a calculated risk hiring Dorman. Rich has some ties to area after spending a few years transforming GCU into a pitching factory. Dorman has transformed every staff he’s overseen and brings a reputation for innovation, discipline, and pitching excellence, traits any rebuilding program would covet.

Reggie Christiansen – Sacramento State Head Coach

Now entering his 15th season at Sacramento State, Reggie Christiansen has quietly crafted one of the most consistent programs in the WAC. Under his leadership, the Hornets have posted 12 30-win seasons, nine postseason berths, and multiple conference tournament championships.

Winning consistently at Sac State, a program with fewer resources and outside traditional College Baseball hot beds, is no small feat. Christiansen’s long-term success and program-building acumen position him as a serious candidate for a step up into the next era of San Diego State Athletics.

Rich Hill – University of Hawai‘i Head Coach

Coaching in Hawai‘i is perhaps the toughest job in Division I baseball: extensive travel, logistical challenges, and intense competition for local recruits. Yet Rich Hill has managed to transform the Rainbow Warriors into a consistent winner. Over four seasons, Hill has delivered winning records each year while steadily raising the program’s national profile.

Hill also brings a rare dual connection to both the University of San Diego and San Diego State, having coached at USD and playing at SDSU. His familiarity with the city, the university, and its culture adds an additional layer of appeal.

Final Thoughts

San Diego State's baseball program has a proud history but finds itself at a crossroads. There is a ton of pressure to nail this hire as San Diego State moves into its Pac-12 Era. I think the right hire will be someone who understands the region, can recruit So Cal at an impressive rate, and overall a proven winner.

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