USC Trojans Welcome Keith Zuniga as New Pitching Coach: Building a Strong Baseball Program
USC Trojans coach Andy Stankiewicz recently introduced Keith Zuniga as the new pitching coach for the baseball program. Zuniga, who previously worked with the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors, played a crucial role in developing their bullpen into one of the best in the nation. During his time as the associate head coach and pitching coach, Zuniga led the Rainbow Warriors to impressive back-to-back seasons with over 35 wins each. In the 2025-2026 season, Hawai’i's pitching staff achieved high national rankings in various categories, showcasing their excellence on the field.
Zuniga expressed his gratitude and excitement about joining the USC baseball program as the pitching coach, acknowledging the tradition of excellence associated with the Trojans. He looks forward to collaborating with the coaching staff to nurture elite pitchers, compete for championships, and uphold the legacy of the Trojans. The addition of Zuniga to the coaching staff signifies a step towards building a strong and competitive team for USC.
As USC continues to strengthen its baseball program, they face the challenges that successful teams encounter, such as recruiting new talent and adjusting to changes in the roster and coaching staff. The Trojans recently saw the departure of several players to the transfer portal, including designated hitter Augie Lopez and six pitchers. The loss of key players like Sean Allen, who accepted a head coach position at Lamar University, adds to the changes within the team. Allen's contributions to USC's pitching staff and his coaching accolades highlight the impact he had on the program during his tenure.
In the previous season, USC's bullpen showcased exceptional performance, ranking highly in various statistical categories during the regular season. Pitchers like Mason Edwards and Grant Govel received accolades for their outstanding contributions to the team, further solidifying USC's reputation as a competitive force in college baseball. The addition of Zuniga as the new pitching coach signals a new chapter for the Trojans, as they aim to continue their success on the field and strive for excellence in the upcoming seasons.