ROCHESTER, Mich. (WXYZ) — Oakland University head baseball coach Colin Kaline announced he is stepping down immediately due to health reasons.
Kaline is the grandson of legendary Detroit Tigers player Al Kaline and was in his first full year as head coach. Before, he had spent three seasons as co-head coach. Details about the health reasons were not given from the university.
"I am very grateful for the time I have spent at Oakland University. The student-athletes have always been my number one priority and at this time I cannot give them the time and attention they need and deserve," Kaline said in a release. "With this in mind I have decided to resign from my position to focus on my health amongst the love and support of my family."
"I respect Colin's decision to step down as head baseball coach and appreciate his service and contributions to the baseball program the last four seasons," Director of Athletics Steve Waterfield added in the release. "Colin and his family will always be a part of the Golden Grizzlies Athletics family and I wish him well as he focuses on his health."
During his tenure as coach, the Golden Grizzlies made history by winning its first-ever Horizon League Tournament game in 2017 and had two wins during the tournament.
Also, 13 student-athletes have earned Horizon League All-Academic Team honors and two All-Horizon League First Team, four second team and four All-Freshman team selections.
Two players – Zach Sterry in 2017 and Jake Lee in 2018 – were selected in the MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Angels respectively.
Justin Karn will serve as acting head coach and the university will begin a national search this spring.
