TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama baseball program has announced significant changes to its 2026 coaching staff, with two key promotions that are poised to drive continued success for the Crimson Tide.

Garrett Wood Steps Up as Director of Player Development and Recruiting

Garrett Wood, previously the program’s recruiting operations assistant, has been promoted to the dual role of Director of Player Development and Recruiting. This move sees Wood taking over from Mikey White, who held the player development position previously.

“Over the past two years, Garrett Wood has shown that he is a star in the making in the coaching world.” – Alabama Head Coach Brad Vaughn

Vaughn praised Wood’s work ethic, selflessness, and commitment to investing in people, expressing excitement about the promotion and Wood’s continued presence in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Whitney.

Kasen Rainey Returns to Tide as Director of Pitching Development and Analytics

Alabama has also welcomed back Kasen Rainey, who will take the helm as Director of Pitching Development and Analytics. Rainey returns to Tuscaloosa after serving as the Crimson Tide’s director of player strategy from 2023 to 2024 and a stint with the Cincinnati Reds as a Major League pitching analyst.

“Bringing back Kasen Rainey was one of the easiest decisions we’ve ever made… He has the unique ability to communicate complex information in a way that players can understand clearly and easily.” – Vaughn

Vaughn highlighted Rainey’s wealth of knowledge, experience, and ability to bring the best out of pitchers. Rainey will join forces with Jason Jackson and Mike Morrison to form an exceptional coaching trio. Rainey and his wife, Caroline, are excited to return to Tuscaloosa.

**Did you know?**

The Crimson Tide has a rich baseball history, with 16 appearances in the College World Series, including a national championship in 2018.

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**FAQ:**

• When did these changes take effect? These changes are effective for the 2026 season.
• How has the Crimson Tide fared recently? Alabama Baseball clinched a series win over No. 1 Georgia in April 2025.

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