College baseball is booming, as are the salaries of its top coaches. As programs compete for championships and MLB-caliber talent, institutions are spending heavily on outstanding leadership.
From Tony Vitello’s record-breaking contract to Tim Corbin’s steady domination, here are the 10 highest-paid college baseball coaches.
List of Highest-Paid College Baseball Coaches in 2024-25
1) Tony Vitello – Tennessee ($3.00M)
Vitello led Tennessee to its first national championship in 2024, completing a 60-13 season. His passion and recruiting skills have transformed the Vols into a powerhouse, earning him the most lucrative contract in college baseball ever.
2) Tim Corbin – Vanderbilt ($2.45M)
Corbin, a two-time national champion (in 2014 and 2019), transformed Vanderbilt into a consistent contender. He is the longest-tenured coach on this list and has a prominent role in modern collegiate baseball, with a reputation for developing MLB talent.
3) Kevin O’Sullivan – Florida ($1.84M)
O’Sullivan guided the Gators to a national championship in 2017 and another runner-up finish in 2023. He constantly fields elite teams and is one of the best recruiters in the country.
4) Tim Tadlock – Texas Tech ($1.83M)
Tadlock transformed the Red Raiders into a national powerhouse, leading them to several College World Series appearances. His player development and aggressive style make Tech a formidable postseason opponent.
5) Jay Johnson – LSU ($1.79M)
After winning a national championship with LSU in 2023, Johnson rapidly established himself as one of the game’s top. He’s known for great recruitment and is keeping LSU’s rich legacy alive and growing.
6) Scott Forbes – North Carolina ($1.7M)
Forbes has kept UNC competitive in the ACC with good pitching and a player-centered attitude. He stepped in easily after legendary coach Mike Fox retired and has continued to elevate the Tar Heels.
7) Mike Bianco – Ole Miss ($1.63M)
Bianco finally won a national title in 2022, following decades of near misses. He is regarded as the most successful coach in Ole Miss history owing to his consistency and leadership abilities.
8) Brian O’Connor – Virginia ($1.4M)
O’Connor, a 2015 national winner and regular Omaha visitor, has established Virginia as a model of long-term success. He is well-known for his ability to develop balanced teams through smart, disciplined play.
9) Dave Van Horn – Arkansas ($1.4M)
Van Horn has Arkansas in Omaha conversations almost every year, as demonstrated by runner-up finishes in 2018 and deep CWS campaigns. He is regarded by Razorback supporters as one of the most recognized names in collegiate football.
10) Dan McDonnell – Louisville ($1.35M)
McDonnell transformed Louisville into a national powerhouse with multiple CWS appearances and ACC domination. His high-octane offense and fierce teaching approach have kept the Cardinals consistently in the top 25.
Also Read: Is There Instant Replay in College Baseball? Breaking Down Replay Rules
Tony Vitello’s novel contract represents a broader trend of growing compensation for college baseball coaches, particularly those who produce championship outcomes. Coaching salaries are likely to rise in tandem with the sport’s increasing popularity and profitability.
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