Mike Ruppenthal Returns to Oakland Baseball
Oakland Baseball announced on Friday that Mike Ruppenthal will take over as its new pitching coach, marking his second stint with the program after a four‑year tenure at Towson University.
Ruppenthal first joined the Golden Grizzlies staff in 2023 under head coach Jordon Banfield, helping to lay the groundwork for a pitching staff that would soon become one of the most reliable in the Colonial Athletic Association.
A CAA‑Tested Track Record
During his time at Towson, the staff posted a program‑record 433 strikeouts in his rookie season, followed by 404 strikeouts in 2026, the third‑highest single‑season total in school history, while lowering the team ERA for the second straight year.
His work with Nate Nabholz earned the pitcher All‑CAA Second Team honors, and the 2024 bullpen combined for 11 saves from six different relievers, tying for the seventh‑most saves in program lore.
Leadership and Vision
Head coach Brian Nelson praised Ruppenthal’s character, leadership and expertise, saying he expects the coach to elevate both the pitching rotation and recruiting pipelines as the team chases a Horizon League championship.
Ruppenthal expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting his excitement to collaborate with the current staff and to bring a winning mindset to the program.
Family and Future
Beyond the dugout, the coach will be joined in Rochester by his wife Lydia and their son Wade, underscoring the personal side of the professional move.