In a recent announcement, USA Baseball revealed that José Vázquez, the coach of Alabama State, has been appointed as the manager of the 2024 college national team. Vázquez brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as an assistant coach for the 2023 CNT. Under his leadership, Alabama State enjoyed a highly successful 2023 season, achieving a record of 41-18 and 26-4 in conference games. This outstanding performance resulted in the team securing the SWAC East Division title for the fifth time in six seasons.
Eric Campbell, USA Baseball’s General Manager of Professional and Collegiate National Teams, expressed confidence in Vázquez’s ability to represent college baseball effectively. In a press release, Campbell stated, “José will do an exceptional job as the Collegiate National Team Manager, serving as a representative for the entire college baseball community. He made a lasting impression last summer as an assistant coach and is now ready to add his name to the esteemed list of USA Baseball managers who have led college baseball’s finest in the national team uniform.”
Vázquez’s coaching prowess has been recognized with the SWAC Coach of the Year award in both 2022 and 2023. Throughout his seven-year tenure with Alabama State, he has received this prestigious honor three times. Prior to his coaching career, Vázquez played college baseball at Bethune-Cookman before transitioning to a graduate assistant role at the program in 2003.
Since assuming the position of head coach at Alabama State, Vázquez has consistently guided his team to winning seasons. His overall record stands at an impressive 201-139 (59.1%), with a conference record of 118-96 (55.1%). Reflecting on his appointment, Vázquez expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “I am honored to represent our nation and lead some of the most talented college players in the country. I am thankful to USA Baseball for entrusting me with this responsibility. Additionally, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase Alabama State University and the Southwestern Athletic Conference on the international stage. I anticipate that this experience will be cherished for a lifetime.”
According to the Source baseballamerica.com