The Texas Longhorns baseball program, under the leadership of head coach Jim Schlossnagle, has undertaken significant changes to enhance its pitching staff. These adjustments are pivotal as the team prepares for its inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2025. The selection and development of the pitching staff are influenced by several key factors, including coaching strategies, player recruitment, and performance metrics.
Coaching Strategy and Staff Reorganization
In July 2023, head coach David Pierce announced a reorganization of the coaching staff, with a notable shift in pitching responsibilities. Pierce assumed the role of pitching coach, a position he had previously held at Rice University and during his tenure at Texas. This change aimed to provide a more hands-on approach to pitching development and to leverage Pierce’s extensive experience in managing pitching staffs.
The coaching staff includes:
- Jim Schlossnagle: Head Coach
- Nolan Cain: Associate Head Coach
- Troy Tulowitzki: Assistant Coach
- Max Weiner: Assistant Coach
- Michael Cantu: Student Assistant
This reorganization reflects a strategic effort to balance offensive and defensive coaching responsibilities, with a particular emphasis on pitching development.
Recruitment and Transfer Portal Activity
Recognizing the need to strengthen the pitching staff, the Longhorns have actively engaged in the transfer portal, securing experienced pitchers from other SEC programs. This strategy aims to infuse the team with proven talent capable of competing at the highest levels. For instance, in July 2024, the Longhorns added two SEC transfer pitchers, enhancing the depth and experience of their bullpen and starting rotation.
Additionally, the program has made significant strides in recruiting high school talent. In October 2024, the Longhorns secured a commitment from elite right-handed pitcher Trey Rangel, a prospect from The Colony High School in Texas. Rangel, known for his fastball that sits in the 90-94 mph range and a devastating curveball, is expected to be a valuable addition to the pitching staff in the coming years.
Player Development and Performance Metrics
The selection of the pitching staff is also influenced by performance metrics and player development programs. Under the guidance of assistant coach Max Weiner, the Longhorns have emphasized the use of analytics to assess and enhance pitcher performance. This data-driven approach allows for a more precise evaluation of a pitcher’s strengths and areas for improvement, facilitating targeted development strategies.
The coaching staff’s commitment to player development is further demonstrated by the reorganization in 2023, which included the appointment of Chris Gordon as Coordinator of Hitting and Pitching Development. Gordon’s role focuses on integrating analytics into daily practices and game preparation, ensuring that both hitters and pitchers receive comprehensive development support.
Projected Pitching Rotation and Depth
As the Longhorns prepare for the 2025 season, the pitching staff is expected to feature a blend of experienced returnees and promising newcomers. Key returning pitchers include:
- Lebarron Johnson Jr.: A right-handed pitcher who was named the 2024 Big 12 Preseason Pitcher of the Year. Johnson posted an 8-4 record with a 2.91 ERA and a 1.28 WHIP in 20 appearances during the previous season.
- Tanner Witt: A right-handed pitcher who missed most of the 2022 season and a significant portion of the 2023 campaign recovering from Tommy John surgery. Witt has shown promising signs of recovery and is expected to be a key contributor in the upcoming season.
- Charlie Hurley: A left-handed pitcher who transferred to Texas and is anticipated to play a significant role in the rotation. Hurley has demonstrated substantial improvement and is expected to be a reliable option for the Longhorns.
The addition of transfer pitchers and the commitment of high school prospects like Trey Rangel further enhance the depth and versatility of the pitching staff. This strategic mix of experience and talent provides the coaching staff with multiple options for the starting rotation and bullpen roles.
