In a surprising [1] turn of events, Texas A&M baseball coach Jim Schlossnagle, who recently stated he would “never” leave the program, has agreed to take over the baseball program at the University of Texas. This news comes just a day after the Aggies’ loss to Tennessee in the Men’s College World Series.
Schlossnagle’s tenure at Texas A&M has been impressive. In his three seasons, he led the Aggies to three NCAA tournament appearances and two trips to the College World Series. Despite coming close, Texas A&M fell one win short of securing a national title in this year’s championship series.
On Monday night, following the team’s loss in the decisive Game 3, Schlossnagle was asked about the possibility of leaving Texas A&M. He responded passionately, expressing his dedication to the program:
“I think it’s pretty selfish of you to ask me that question, to be honest with you,” Schlossnagle said. “But I left my family to be the coach at Texas A&M. I took the job at Texas A&M to never take another job again. And that hasn’t changed in my mind. That’s unfair to talk about something like that… I understand you’ve gotta ask the question. But I gave up a big part of my life to come take this job, and I’ve poured every ounce of my soul into this job. And I’ve given this job every single ounce I can possibly give it. Write that.” A post to X shows the tense moment of questioning from last night:
This is why we’re upset. This was Jim Schlossnagle just last night. pic.twitter.com/Z5eVVwqr2r [2]
— Lance Browning (@thelanceb) June 26, 2024 [3]
However, less than 24 hours after making this statement, reports surfaced that Schlossnagle is headed to Austin to take the helm at Texas. Schlossnagle leaves Texas A&M as one of the most accomplished coaches in college baseball, now stepping into a powerhouse program with 38 College World Series appearances, 12 trips to the CWS finals, and six national championships.
Schlossnagle, a two-time National Coach of the Year, has an extensive coaching resume, including 22 years in NCAA baseball with previous stints at TCU and UNLV. His career includes leading teams to 19 NCAA tournament appearances and seven College World Series trips. Although he has yet to win a national championship, his new role at Texas offers another opportunity to achieve that goal. A “put on a happy face” post from Texas A&M Baseball’s X account confirmed the news:
Statement from Director of Athletics Trev Alberts:
"After our baseball team arrived back in College Station earlier today, Jim informed me of his desire to leave Texas A&M. While we are certainly disappointed, we are grateful for his contributions in helping our baseball program…
— Texas A&M Athletics (@12thMan) June 26, 2024 [4]
As the Longhorns and Aggies prepare to face off as SEC rivals start next season, the anticipation for their matchups will undoubtedly be heightened with Schlossnagle’s move, adding to the storied rivalry.