The University of Texas has dismissed head baseball coach David Pierce after eight seasons, following the team’s 36-24 finish this year and elimination in the Bryan-College Station regional. According to statements from Pierce and UT athletic director Chris Del Conte, the decision was mutual and aimed at steering the program in a new direction.
Pierce expressed gratitude for his tenure and accomplishments, which include three College World Series appearances, a 267-162 overall record, and three Big 12 regular season championships. He had two years remaining on his contract and will receive approximately $1.85 million, equivalent to 70% of his remaining base salary.
The timing of Pierce’s dismissal coinciding with the day of game 3 of the Men’s College World Series has not gone unnoticed. Speculation on potential replacements, including Tennessee’s Tony Vitello and Texas A&M’s Jim Schlossnagle, has already surfaced. Schlossnagle, who earned $1.35 million this season, has a higher buyout if hired by another in-state school, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.
