Swinney’s story: A consideration as Alberts’ research continues

As Texas A&M’s search for a new baseball coach continues, the Aggies would be wise to consider the Clemson coach.

Yes, we are aware that Tigers baseball coach Erik Bakich is apparently not an option.

But that’s not the Clemson coach mentioned here.

A&M athletic director Trev Alberts should consider Dabo Swinney.

No, not as a candidate to take the baseball coaching job at A&M. Of course not.

Alberts should consider Swinney’s story.

Prior to October 12, 2008, Swinney had never served as a head coach. He was named interim head coach when Tommy Bowden resigned midway through the season. After the season, the “interim” label was removed from his title.

Clemson fans protested. The media made fun of him. But Swinney went on to become the most successful football coach in school history, even leading the Tigers to two national championships.

So what does this have to do with A&M baseball?

The fact is, sometimes a program doesn’t need to hire an “elite” coach to get an elite coach.

Of course, renowned and recognized coaches must be taken into account. But sometimes a great coach is just waiting for a chance.

This is why Alberts should legitimately consider Michael Earley for the job.

Of course, Earley, who was A&M’s hitting coach for three seasons, currently holds that position at Texas. But there is a rumor that he would like to return to A&M.

A slew of A&M baseball players — past and present — also want him back. There has been an outpouring of support on social media.

Jacob Palisch, Jack Moss, Ted Burton, Dylan Rock, Trevor Werner, Troy Claunch, Ryan Targac, Austin Bost, Jace LaViolette and Gavin Grahovac are among the current and former players who have shown their support for Earley through posts or replays on social networks.

Burton tweeted: “No one is more deserving, no questions need be asked. One of the brightest young minds in baseball and a true love for his guys. Any player would run through a wall for this man. Mike Earley is a certified DUDE!!!”

It was noted that Tennessee’s Tony Vitello, whose Volunteers won the national championship last week, had never been a head coach until he was given his chance in 2018.

Of course, Tennessee won that championship in a three-game series against A&M.

Hiring Earley would provide the best chance to prevent several players like LaViolette, Grahovac, Caden Sorrell and others from leaving via the transfer portal.

And if his departure causes Jim Schlossnagle some headaches…well, that’s a bonus.

Star pitcher Ryan Prager, eligible for the 2024 MLB Draft, told TexAgs Radio on Friday that he could potentially return to A&M along with several other pitchers.

“We talked to Trev the other day, and he was basically letting us know that he was working his butt off, and that he was looking and was going to find the best guy for Texas A&M baseball,” said Prager. “He wasn’t going to try to find the flashiest guy, but he was going to find the right person for Aggie Baseball because A&M has the character it needs, and it doesn’t need just anyone. “

You don’t necessarily have to hire a coach because many players want one. These players are gone or will eventually disappear.

Alberts needs to find a guy who can also attract new players, manage a team effectively and continue to build a championship culture.

Earley could be a great candidate. Like many others.

Alberts must consider established and proven coaches. But he and Aggies fans shouldn’t dismiss Earley because he hasn’t been a head coach yet.

Clemson is certainly happy that Dabo was considered.