Auburn pitching coach Tim Hudson leaves program, Daron Schoenrock named replacement

Butch Thompson brought the Auburn Tigers back to college baseball’s promise land this year, reaching the College World Series. He did so with the help of former MLB star pitcher Tim Hudson, who served as the program’s pitching coach.

On Monday, Auburn announced Hudson would not be returning for the 2023 season. His goal was to finish out his degree but was a volunteer assistant with the baseball team. Thompson commented on Hudson’s departure, having nothing but positive things to say about his now former assistant.

“The whole college baseball world recognizes Tim’s enhanced legacy as our pitching coach the last three seasons,” Thompson said. “At the end of the day, he earned his Auburn degree and helped lead our program back to the College World Series.

“No former student-athlete has given more back to their university, and Tim’s desire to work hard every day is an amazing example to respect and strive for.”

Hudson will now drop down to the high school ranks at Lee-Scott Academy. He will be coaching his son, who will be playing his senior year of baseball within the Auburn area. In his statement, Hudson said he will be devoting his “time and energy” to his family as they go through their next chapter.

Auburn makes quick move, names pitching coach replacement

The search for a new pitching coach did not take too long, with Thompson announcing who would be taking over on Monday. Daron Schoenrock will step in as the next pitching coach, spending the last 18 seasons as the Memphis head coach.

Schoenrock released his own statement, crediting the groundwork Thompson has built on the Plains. He said it’s an “honor” to join the Auburn program and is ready to hit the ground running.

“It is a tremendous honor to join Coach Thompson and the entire Auburn baseball family,” Schoenrock said. “The culture he has built, the staff he has assembled, and the success they have achieved are second to none. I can’t wait to build upon the outstanding groundwork that has been established for Auburn Tiger pitching by Coach Thompson and Coach Hudson. War Eagle!”

With their appearance in the College World Series this past year, Auburn has now made it two out of the last three tournaments. Thompson has done a great job of building the program into a consistent one, especially with how difficult the SEC can be on a yearly basis.