STOCKTON, Calif. – The Pacific baseball program has announced that Ryan Garko has resigned as head coach to join the Major League Staff of the Los Angeles Angels.
 
Garko spent two seasons managing the Tigers, compiling an overall record of 45-55 during his time at UOP.
 
"I am thankful for my time here at Pacific and for the friendships I have made within our athletics department," said Garko. "Pacific is a truly special place. I am most thankful to the student athletes for their commitment and hard work both in the classroom and on the field. I look forward to following their careers between the lines as well as in life." 
 
In his two years at the helm, six players signed contracts to play professionally after their time with the Orange and Black: Samson Abernathy, Cooper Casad, James Free II, Shelby Lackey, Tyler Ryan and Ryan Shreve.
 
Additionally, the Pacific baseball team has enjoyed success in the classroom under Garko's leadership, finishing with a team GPA over 3.00 the past three semesters.
 
Director of Athletics Janet Lucas is extremely thankful for Garko's impact throughout his stay at Pacific: "Coach Garko has made his mark on our baseball program during his tenure at Pacific.  The foundation built by Ryan and the remarkable student-athletes he and his staff have recruited has created a strong culture within the team that points to a very bright future."
 
Chris Rodriguez, who joined the Tigers prior to the 2019, has been named the interim head coach of Pacific Baseball. Following the conclusion of the 2020 season, a national search will be conducted to find a permanent head coach.