Washington State University announced this week that head baseball coach Nathan Choate has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him at the helm through the 2031 season. The move comes after a breakthrough year that saw the Cougars capture their first conference championship since 1976 and earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
A Program on the Rise
The team not only posted a 31‑28 record but also set a program‑wide benchmark with a 3.45 cumulative GPA, underscoring a culture that blends competitive success with academic excellence. Athletic director Jon Haarlow praised the "remarkable blend of on‑field grit and scholarly achievement" that defined the season.
Choate expressed his appreciation for the support he has received from WSU President Elizabeth Cantwell and Haarlow, noting that the university’s commitment to both athletics and education was a decisive factor in his decision to stay. "I am grateful for the confidence placed in me and excited to continue building on this momentum," he said.
The roster will retain several key contributors, including standout pitcher Nick Lewis, who was a finalist for the ABCA Rawlings Gold Glove award and earned Mountain West Conference Pitcher of the Year honors. Lewis, who finished the season 10‑2 with a 2.97 ERA over 100 innings, will anchor a pitching staff that also features returning hitters Max Hartman and Ryan Skjonsby.
With the core group staying together and a recruiting class already in the pipeline, the Cougars are positioned to capitalize on their recent triumphs. The program’s blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent suggests that the next few years could see continued ascent on the national stage.
A New Era for Cougars Baseball
The extension reflects a strategic vision that goes beyond wins and losses, aiming to embed a sustainable model of excellence that can be replicated across other sports at the university.