Roberto Verdugo joined SJSU as the new pitching coach in October of 2025. Verdugo joins SJSU following a successful tenure across multiple collegiate and club programs, bringing a proven record of leadership, athlete development, and championship experience.
Coaching Background:
Arizona Western College (Yuma, AZ) – Assistant Coach and Sports Coordinator
- Guided the Matadors’ pitching staff to a 10-year low team ERA of 3.35.
- Helped lead the team to the 2025 NJCAA Softball World Series and a Region I Championship.
- Oversaw hitting, fielding, scouting, and recruiting operations.
- Recruited 14 new athletes to the program.
Minot State University (ND) – Assistant Coach
- Led the Beavers to a team ERA improvement from 5.10 to 2.56.
- Coached multiple All-Conference players.
- Elevated the program to its highest academic standing in school history (3.23 GPA).
- Achieved the best defensive performance in six years.
Colorado Northwestern Community College – Assistant Coach
- Managed team budgets and facilities, including building a covered hitting facility.
- Improved the student-athlete GPA from 2.76 to 3.10.
- SOZO Softball (Tucson, AZ) – Founder and President
- Established a player development program supporting 40+ athletes and multiple competitive teams.
Ball State University – Coaching Staff
- Developed a comprehensive video analysis system to enhance player development.
- Contributed to defensive efficiency improvements across the program.
University of Arizona – Volunteer Manager (Alma Mater)
- Worked with the Wildcats softball staff, assisting in team operations and player support.
- Graduated from Arizona in 2019
Military Service:
- U.S. Navy Veteran – Machinery Repairman, Petty Officer 3rd Class
- Served aboard the USS Peleliu.
- Attributes his discipline, leadership, and attention to detail to his military background, which continues to define his coaching philosophy.