From University of Chicago Athletics
University of Chicago's Brian Baldea announced on Thursday that he will be stepping down as Head Baseball Coach in order to take on increased responsibilities as Associate Director of Athletics. Baldea recently concluded his 24th season as Head Baseball Coach in 2014. He will remain head coach until a nationwide search for the position is concluded.
Baldea will expand his contributions within the department to include working alongside Athletic Director Erin McDermott on strategic initiatives and alumni relations. Additionally, he will help to coordinate professional development for the coaching staff and enrichment programming for students. Baldea will continue to oversee the sports information and promotions office, as well as the fitness and wellness programs and personnel, including a new strength and conditioning coach.
"I'm looking forward to the challenges and opportunities in this new role as well as to this next phase in my career," Baldea said. "It is with mixed emotions that I walk away from coaching but I am excited about the chance to contribute to several new initiatives in athletics and wellness here at UChicago."
"This is a bittersweet moment for Brian and the Department," McDermott said. "I have no doubt that he will continue to serve us diligently in this enhanced administration role, but it is difficult for any coach to walk away from a sport for which he cares deeply and from the labor of love that is coaching. I look forward to working with Brian in this new capacity as we look to enrich the experiences of our student-athletes, coaches and campus community significantly. We will begin a national search for a head baseball coach immediately and I am confident that we will identify a talented coach who will be an excellent teacher and mentor for Maroon Baseball as Brian has been."
Baldea is the winningest baseball coach in the program's 122-year history with a career record of 411-377-5. His teams produced 14 winning seasons and nine campaigns with at least 20 victories. Under his guidance, the Maroons set the school record for wins in 2001 with a 26-8 mark. UChicago compiled three-straight 20-win seasons from 1996-98, a feat never before accomplished during the program's previous 105 years of competition.