A strategic addition to the Gators' pitching staff
The University of Florida Baseball program revealed this week that Rich Dorman will serve as its new pitching coach, bringing a deep reservoir of expertise to the storied Gators tradition. Athletic director Scott Stricklin praised Dorman's proven ability to elevate talent, noting that his arrival aligns with the program's ongoing pursuit of national relevance.
Dorman arrives after a seven‑year tenure at Oregon State, where his pitching staff captured national attention by leading the country in earned run average, WHIP and hits allowed per nine innings during the 2026 season. Under his guidance, the Beavers produced fifteen Major League Baseball draft selections and ten All‑America pitchers, underscoring his talent for nurturing elite arms.
A career built on development and transformation
Before Oregon State, Dorman honed his craft at Grand Canyon University, guiding the program from a modest foundation to consecutive winning campaigns between 2017 and 2019. His early years began in the Seattle Mariners' farm system, where he spent nine seasons as a minor‑league player before retiring in 2008. A 13th‑round pick of the Tampa Bay Rays in 2000, Dorman transitioned seamlessly into coaching, amassing eighteen years of experience, including a decade at the NCAA Division I level.
University of Florida head coach Kevin O'Sullivan welcomed Dorman, emphasizing that his arrival "strengthens an already robust pitching development pipeline" and reinforces the program's commitment to sustained excellence. O'Sullivan highlighted the synergy between Dorman's analytical approach and the Gators' historic emphasis on disciplined, high‑velocity arms.
Implications for the Gators' future
The addition of Dorman is expected to accelerate the growth of emerging talents such as Cooper Hjerpe, Trey Morris and the rest of the 2026 roster, all of whom are poised to benefit from his meticulous mentorship. With a track record of producing MLB‑ready pitchers, Dorman's influence could position Florida as a premier destination for aspiring professional arms, reinforcing the program's reputation on the national stage.