A New Chapter for Siena Baseball
Siena University announced this week that Wayne Jones will assume the role of pitching coach for its baseball program, effective immediately. The move comes as the Saints look to bolster a pitching staff that has shown steady growth in recent seasons.
Jones arrives with an extensive résumé that spans almost three decades of mentorship on the mound. His career includes stints as head coach at The College of Saint Rose and as pitching coach at the University at Albany, where he guided teams to America East Conference Tournament appearances in each of his two seasons on staff.
During his tenure at Albany, Jones helped cultivate the first-ever UAlbany America East Pitcher of the Year, Dylan Banner, and contributed to the development of fellow All‑Conference hurler Matt Mariano. His ability to refine mechanics and instill confidence has been credited with turning raw talent into polished collegiate arms.
Beyond the college ranks, Jones has left a measurable imprint on high school baseball in the Capital Region. He served as pitching coach at Shenendehowa and Shaker High School, leading Shaker to the 2011 New York State Championship Finals. His work with the South Troy Dodgers Elite Team and the Clifton Park Reds of the Mountain College League further demonstrates his commitment to nurturing talent across age groups.
Perhaps most notable among his protégés are Major League pitchers Jeff Hoffman and Tommy Kahnle, both of whom credit Jones with shaping their early development. Under his guidance, the duo refined their arsenals and navigated the transition to professional play, eventually earning spots on MLB rosters.
In his new role at Siena, Jones will oversee recruitment, skill development, and game‑day strategy for the Saints’ pitchers. Athletic Director Alex Jurczynski expressed confidence that Jones’s blend of experience and proven track record will elevate the program’s competitive edge. “We are excited to welcome a coach whose expertise has consistently produced high‑level talent,” Jurczynski said.