BREAKING: Ohio State Makes History, Hiring Former MLB Standout as New Women’s Baseball Head Coach in Major National Statement

Columbus, OH – In a landmark move that is sending shockwaves through the college baseball world, Ohio State University has announced the hiring of former Major League Baseball (MLB) star Jessica Delgado as the new head coach of its women’s baseball program. This groundbreaking decision signals a bold and strategic step for the Buckeyes as they look to elevate their women’s team to national prominence.

Delgado, 44, becomes the first former MLB-affiliated player to take the reins of a major NCAA Division I women’s baseball program. Her appointment is being heralded not only as a win for Ohio State, but as a transformative moment in the growth of women’s baseball across the country.

Delgado, who previously served as a player development coach with the Toronto Blue Jays and spent over a decade mentoring prospects at the professional and collegiate levels, brings an elite pedigree to the Buckeyes. Though her time in affiliated baseball was brief due to injury, her influence has endured in coaching circles, where she’s widely respected for her tactical mind, motivational presence, and player-first philosophy.

Her coaching career took off after she transitioned from playing, beginning with youth academies and quickly rising through the ranks to become one of MLB’s most sought-after female instructors. Prior to joining Ohio State, Delgado was the associate director of baseball operations for USA Baseball’s women’s national team, where she played a critical role in developing talent and promoting the sport’s visibility.

“I’m honored and humbled to be joining the Buckeye family,” Delgado said during Friday’s press conference at Bill Davis Stadium. “This isn’t just about a coaching change—this is about building a new era of women’s baseball. Ohio State is committed to excellence, and I’m here to push that standard every single day.”

The timing of this announcement couldn’t be more impactful. Women’s baseball has been steadily growing, with more schools developing programs and national exposure increasing thanks to events like the Women’s Baseball World Cup and the MLB’s continued support of youth development programs.

Ohio State’s decision to bring in Delgado signals its intention to not merely participate, but to dominate.

Athletic Director Gene Smith emphasized the university’s long-term vision: “Jessica Delgado is a trailblazer. Her experience, her leadership, and her vision for what this program can become made her the perfect fit. This hire isn’t just for this season—it’s a statement to the nation that Ohio State is all in on women’s baseball.”

Delgado inherits a young but hungry Buckeyes squad, coming off a season filled with potential but plagued by inconsistency. With a talented recruiting class on the way and Delgado’s proven eye for player development, expectations are sky-high.

Delgado has already met with players and plans to implement a comprehensive overhaul of training, analytics, and mental preparation. Her coaching style is described as rigorous yet empowering, and she’s known for building tight-knit, competitive environments.

“Our athletes deserve the same resources, intensity, and respect as any other program,” Delgado said. “We’re going to play fast, play smart, and play together. This is more than just baseball—it’s about legacy.”

Knowing we’ll be led by someone with Coach Delgado’s background gives us so much confidence,” said sophomore pitcher Riley Meadows. “She understands our fight, and she’s bringing a fire that’s contagious.”

Since the announcement, social media has erupted with praise from figures across baseball. MLB Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. tweeted his congratulations, while USA Baseball issued a statement applauding Delgado’s appointment and Ohio State’s commitment to growing the women’s game.

This move changes the landscape,” said one Big Ten assistant coach anonymously. “Ohio State just put everyone on notice.”

Delgado has already begun working with the team during offseason training sessions and will lead them into fall exhibition play before the regular season kicks off in February. She is also expected to spearhead recruiting efforts that will target both national and international talent.

There’s also talk that under Delgado’s leadership, Ohio State may push for expanded support, including facility upgrades and national television coverage for more women’s games.

“It’s about time women’s baseball was taken seriously at the collegiate level,” said Delgado. “And we’re going to prove that Ohio State is where the best come to play.”