LACEY, Wash. — Saint Martin's University Athletics today announced a transition in coaching leadership within the Baseball program, with Jacob Garsez stepping down as head coach and assistant coach Ben Harley being promoted to head coach.

Coach Garsez will lead the program through June 5, working with Coach Harley to ensure a smooth transition before Harley's first day as head coach on June 8.

"I want to thank Jacob for the positive impact he made on the baseball program during his time with us," Saint Martin's Director of Athletics Theresa Hanson said. "He stepped into a program and immediately helped create a positive culture, brought renewed energy and momentum, and made a meaningful impact on the student-athletes and on the future direction of the program."

"Coach Harley has already demonstrated a strong commitment to this program and to the student-athlete experience, and I'm confident in the leadership he will bring moving forward," Hanson said. "We believe this also provides important continuity and stability for the team, while also allowing us to continue building on the culture, momentum, and foundation that has been established."

The Saints accumulated a 13-38 record and a 5-27 record in GNAC play this season, increasing the team's previous season win total by 10 and earning victories in four GNAC series. Saint Martin's saw one first-team All GNAC player in Noah Albanese, along with two second-team players and four players on the honorable mention list.

"Stepping down is a bittersweet moment. This new opportunity will allow my wife and I to raise our kids closer to family, and we are incredibly appreciative of what this opportunity can do for our family," Garsez said. "Walking away from a program and department that I deeply believe in is not easy. However, I truly believe the foundation we built this year for the baseball program, positioned the program to make great strides moving forward. I am extremely thankful for Theresa Hanson for her support and for the trust she placed in me to lead this team. I completely endorse the hiring of Coach Harley to continue momentum forward. We have strong administrative support, student athletes who care deeply, and a culture that is beginning to take shape, all key ingredients for future success. I have always believed the program is bigger than an individual, and I believe this program will prove that in the years ahead."

Harley moves into the head coaching position after spending the last season as an assistant coach in charge of pitching for the Saints. Prior to Saint Martin's, he spent six seasons at Centralia College, five of which he served as head coach.

"As we look forward, I am excited to be given the opportunity to become head coach and I would like to thank Theresa Hanson for this opportunity," Harley said. "We will look to build upon the progress that we have made these past few months, and continue to provide a quality student-athlete experience for our players. It is an exciting time to be part of the Saint Martin's Baseball program and the athletic department as a whole. See you all out at Saints Field in the future! Go Saints!"