SDSU Baseball hires Arizona’s Kevin Vance as new head coach

Fresh off a College World Series appearance, Vance now heads back to his hometown to become the ninth head coach in program history

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Following a disappointing 20-39 season, SDSU Baseball is now looking to a San Diego native to take over the program.

University of Arizona pitching coach Kevin Vance will become the ninth head baseball coach in Aztecs history.

"It's been a fun and long road for me. I'm finally back home and excited to be here," Vance said in a press conference Wednesday.

Vance has spent the past two seasons with the Wildcats, recently helping the program get back to the College World Series.

A graduate of Torrey Pines High School, Vance played collegiately at UConn before spending six seasons in Minor League Baseball.

"I grew up going to games here. I played in the CIF championship game here in high school, we lost. I made an error in left field in the first inning, so I still think about that all the time, but it's just great to be here and get back to my roots," Vance said.

SDSU athletic director J.D Wicker mentioned he appreciated Vance's experience helping pitchers.

"He's seen a lot of success over his years, he's a pitching coach, so understands that side of the game and the importance of it," Wicker said.

Additionally, Vance will now get to work with Yuma Catholic alumni and current Aztecs pitcher Issac Araiza.

"We've talked to a number of people out there, ADs that he's worked with, and he comes with the highest credentials, so, we're really excited about what Kevin's going to bring to our program," Wicker said.

Even with it being day one of the Vance era, it didn't stop the new coach from setting his expectations early.

"Winning championships will always be the goal, I’d love that for next year, but we’ve got to put in a lot of work to do that,” Vance said.