There is always a period of transition whenever a college sports program undergoes a leadership change, and one never knows how things will go. Chuck Ristano took over the Navy baseball program in mid-June and began the process of putting his imprint on the program. He wanted to instill a new mentality and install a new playing philosophy.
It was anyone’s guess how all that would play out on the field. Would the Midshipmen immediately embrace the new head coach and his ideas or would the process extend beyond this season? As Navy prepares to play archrival Army in the championship series of the Patriot League Tournament, the clear-cut conclusion is that Ristano had done a remarkable job of transforming the program in remarkably fast fashion. After struggling for three straight seasons, Navy is playing a completely different brand of baseball and excelling.
The Midshipmen have compiled a 28-21 overall record and 15-10 mark in the Patriot League, finishing in sole possession of second place. It represents a tremendous turnaround for Navy, which was coming off two straight losing seasons — 23-26 in 2023, 19-26 in 2022. Prior to practice Thursday, Ristano said he is “absolutely not surprised” that Navy is in position to capture its first Patriot League Tournament championship since 2016.
He cited a strong senior class as reason for optimism this season could be a success. The Midshipmen have nine seniors — four are starting position players and two are key pitchers. Pri.