Caleb Garner/Arkansas State Athletics

JONESBORO, Ark. (5/29/24) – Arkansas State Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Jeff Purinton announced Wednesday that Tommy Raffo will not return as head baseball coach next year.
 
“We want to thank Coach Raffo for his many contributions to our baseball program, university, athletics department and community during his 16 years as our head baseball coach,” said Purinton.  “He committed himself to running a first-class program, and the professional manner in which his teams consistently conducted business was a direct reflection of his high character.
 
“Following a comprehensive evaluation of our baseball program, we determined that this is the appropriate time to make a change with our head coaching position.  We will begin an immediate national search to bring in new leadership and continue to work to enhance all areas of our baseball program.”
 
Raffo, named A-State’s fifth all-time head baseball coach on July 1, 2008, recently completed his 16th season with the Red Wolves in 2024.  A-State completed the season with a 21-32-1 record, giving the program 382 victories during his tenure that stand as the most by any head coach in school history.
 
His teams made 10 appearances in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament, including 2012 when the Red Wolves advanced to the championship game for the first time since 1996.  A-State was the only team in the league to win at least two games at the conference tournament every season from 2010-17.
 
The Sun Belt’s 2012 Coach of the Year, Raffo coached 15 all-conference selections, had 17 players drafted and sent 21 players to the minor leagues.