FPU Baseball is proud to announce the hiring of Sunbird baseball alumnus Tejean "TJ" Smith as Associate Head Coach. Smith will join Oscar Hirschkorn's staff immediately.

"I'm very excited to add TJ to our coaching staff," Hirschkorn said at the time of Smith's hire. "He brings energy, enthusiasm, character, and knowledge beyond his years."

Smith joins the Sunbird coaching staff after completing an accomplished collegiate career that included stops at Hawaii Pacific University and Fresno Pacific University. A versatile infielder, Smith earned multiple All-PacWest honors during his playing career and established himself as one of the conference's most consistent performers at the plate and in the infield. During his final season in a Sunbird uniform, he became a member of Fresno Pacific's 200-hit club, cementing his place among the program's most productive offensive players. He capped off 2026 by being named FPU's Comeback Athlete of the Year. Throughout his playing career, Smith developed a reputation as a respected leader and teammate.

In his new role, Smith will bring a player-first approach rooted in development, accountability, faith, and relationship-building. He will work closely with Fresno Pacific's hitters and infielders while assisting in all areas of the program, including recruiting, player development, base running, defense, game preparation, as well as facilitating FPU Baseball prospect and youth camps. He places a strong emphasis on helping players develop a consistent offensive approach, build confidence at the plate, and understand the mental side of the game. His coaching philosophy centers on teaching the daily process required for long-term success, both on and off the field.

Smith is passionate about creating a culture built on competition, teamwork, servant leadership, and personal growth. He believes baseball provides a powerful platform to teach character, discipline, and faith.

"I'm incredibly grateful and honored for the opportunity to serve as the Associate Head Coach of FPU Baseball," Smith said. "This is a dream opportunity for me, and I'm excited to be part of a program that aligns so closely with my values and passion for developing young men. What makes this role especially meaningful is the opportunity to coach and mentor student-athletes through a Christian worldview, helping them grow not only as players, but also in their faith, character, and leadership. I'm committed to building strong relationships with our student-athletes, invest in their development on and off the field, and do whatever is needed to help our program succeed. I'm truly excited to get started and can't wait to get to work."

A native of Sacramento, Smith earned his degree in Business Management from Fresno Pacific University.  Please join all of us at FPU Athletics as we welcome back Tejean Smith in his new role as Associate Head Coach.


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