Swinney’s Story: Something to Consider 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 being referred to here.

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

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

Alberts should think about 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 objected. The media ridiculed. 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 established coaches should be considered. But sometimes a great coach is just waiting for his 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 serves in that role at Texas. But there’s a rumor he’d like to return to A&M.

Many A&M baseball players, past and present, also want his return. Support has multiplied on social networks.

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 deserves him more, no questions asked. One of the brightest and youngest 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 Friday that he could potentially return to A&M along with several other pitchers.

“We talked to Trev the other day, and he let us know that he was working hard, looking for the best player for Texas A&M baseball,” Prager said. “He wasn’t going to try to get the flashiest player, but he was going to find the right fit for Aggie baseball, because A&M has a personality that they need, and they don’t need just anybody.”

You don’t necessarily need to hire a coach because many players want one. Those players have left 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 good choice. Many others could do it too.

Alberts has established, proven coaches to consider. 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.