Oregon’s baseball program announced the hiring of Ryan Fineman, a 29‑year‑old strategist who spent the last two seasons as the recruiting coordinator and assistant coach at Troy University. Fineman’s appointment comes as the Ducks look to maintain the momentum they have built under head coach Mark Wasikowski, who has guided the team to at least 36 wins in each season since 2020.
Fineman’s résumé includes a stint as director of player personnel at Alabama, followed by roles at New Orleans and Chipola Junior College, before his breakthrough at Troy where he helped the program capture a Sun Belt Conference title and advance to the 2026 Austin Super Regional. At Troy he also coached the team’s catchers and worked directly under head coach Skylar Meade, a partnership that culminated in a 39‑32 overall record and a 17‑13 mark in conference play.
The Ducks’ leadership praised Fineman’s blend of analytical acumen and personal connections in the amateur ranks. Wasikowski highlighted his character and the depth of his network, noting that the new hire replaces Jack Marder, who departed for a similar position with the Texas Longhorns. Marder’s departure was confirmed earlier this offseason, creating the vacancy that Fineman now fills.
Oregon’s recent history underscores the significance of the hire. The program has reached an NCAA Super Regional in three of the past four seasons and has consistently ranked among the nation’s top offensive teams. With a strong recruiting class already on the horizon, Fineman’s expertise is expected to sharpen the Ducks’ ability to attract high‑impact talent from across the country.
The move also signals a continuation of the Ducks’ aggressive scheduling strategy, which includes hosting regional tournaments and pursuing challenging non‑conference opponents. As the 2027 college baseball season looms on the horizon, the addition of Fineman adds another layer of depth to a staff that has already proven capable of turning modest programs into national contenders.
Fineman’s pedigree and the Ducks’ next chapter
Fineman’s playing background at Indiana and a brief professional stint with the Tampa Bay Rays provides him with a player‑first perspective that complements his administrative duties. His experience navigating both the Power Five and junior‑college landscapes equips him to scout a diverse array of prospects, a skill set that aligns perfectly with Oregon’s ambition to reclaim a spot in the College World Series for the first time since 1954.