The Swinney story: Something to consider as Alberts' search continues

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

Yes, we’re aware the Tigers baseball coach Erik Bakich supposedly isn’t an option.

But that’s not the Clemson coach referenced here.

A&M Athletic Director Trev Alberts should consider Dabo Swinney.

No, not as a candidate to fill A&M’s baseball coach opening. Of course not.

Alberts should consider Swinney’s story.

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

Clemson fans objected. Media ridiculed. But Swinney became the most successful football coach in school history, even leading the Tigers to two national championships.

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

The point is that sometimes a program doesn’t have to hire an “elite” coach to get an elite coach.

Sure, big-name, established coaches must be considered. But sometimes, a great coach is just waiting for a chance.

Jamie Maury, TexAgs

Michael Earley joined Jim Schlossnagle’s staff as Texas A&M’s hitting coach on June 23, 2021, after five seasons with Tracy Smith at Arizona State.

That’s why Alberts should legitimately consider Michael Earley for the position.

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

An abundance of A&M baseball players — past and present — want him back, too. There has been a groundswell 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 present and former players who have shown support for Earley by social media posts or reposts.

Burton tweeted: “Nobody more deserving, no more questions need to be asked. One of the brightest, young baseball minds out there and a genuine love for his guys. Any player would run through a wall for this man. Mike Earley is a certified DUDE!!!”

It’s been pointed out that Tennessee’s Tony Vitello, whose Volunteers won the national championship last week, was never a head coach until given a shot 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 multiple players like LaViolette, Grahovac, Caden Sorrell and others from leaving through the transfer portal.

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

Star pitcher Ryan Prager, who is eligible for the 2024 MLB Draft, told TexAgs Radio on Friday that he could possibly 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 tail off, and he was on the search and was going to find the best guy for Texas A&M baseball,” Prager said. “He wasn’t going to try to get the flashiest guy, but he was going to get the right fit for Aggie baseball because A&M has like a persona that it needs, and it doesn’t just need just anybody.”

A coach shouldn’t necessarily be hired because a lot of players want him. Those players are gone or eventually will be gone.

Alberts must 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 fit. So could many others.

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

Clemson is certainly glad Dabo was considered.