SDSU Baseball Adds Former All-Star Pitcher Melancon to Coaching Staff

The San Diego State baseball team added former Major League Baseball relief pitcher Mark Melancon to their coaching staff, coach Shaun Cole announced Tuesday. Melancon will serve as the Aztecs’ pitching development coordinator.

Melancon, a four-time MLB All-Star, played for eight teams during his 14 year career, posting a career 2.94 earned run average with 643 strikeouts. His 262 saves ranks 36th all-time in MLB.

“It’s exciting to be part of a staff that has great experience and a clear vision on what needs to happen to be successful at the highest level,” Melancon said. “I’m eager to help these players compete for a national championship and hopefully move on to the next level.”

Cole spoke highly on how Melancon will improve the team on the field, as well as Melancon’s character, and how he finished his degree during rehab with the New York Yankees.

“This speaks highly about his work ethic, discipline, and desire to be great beyond the baseball field,” Cole said. “He’s going to impact our program, coaches, and student-athletes on and off the field.”

Melancon recorded his first All-Star selection in 2015 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, when he converted 51 of his 53 save opportunities. Melancon finished eighth in NL Cy Young Award voting that season.

Following his time in Pittsburgh, Melancon spent time with the Washington Nationals, San Francisco Giants, and the Atlanta Braves before signing with the San Diego Padres. During his 2021 season in San Diego, Melancon led the major leagues with 39 saves.