North Dakota State University’s baseball program has announced the hiring of Andy Young, a West Fargo native, as an assistant coach on Tyler Oakes’ staff. The move signals a strategic push to blend professional insight with regional roots as the Bison prepare for the upcoming season.
A Homecoming for a Bison Alum
Young arrives after a season spent assisting the Concordia College baseball team in 2025, where he helped develop collegiate talent while maintaining strong ties to the local baseball community. His playing career included a stint as the 2012 North Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year, a 2016 draft selection by the St. Louis Cardinals, and a Major League debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks on August 1, 2020, followed by appearances through the 2021 season before concluding his career within the Washington Nationals organization.
Tyler Oakes, head coach of the Bison, expressed enthusiasm about the addition, noting that Young’s extensive knowledge of the game and proven track record will enrich the program’s competitive edge. Oakes highlighted the value of integrating a local figure who understands both the challenges and opportunities facing the team.
Young himself spoke of pride in returning to his home state, emphasizing gratitude for the chance to work with the NDSU program and to give back to the community that shaped his early development. He described the role as an opportunity to mentor the next generation of Bison while sharing the lessons learned at the highest levels of professional baseball.
The hiring underscores North Dakota State’s commitment to building a coaching staff that balances professional experience with regional authenticity, a strategy that aligns with the university’s broader athletic ambitions and its focus on fostering homegrown talent.