The University of the Pacific community is deeply saddened by the loss of head baseball coach Reed Peterswho passed away on June 4, 2026at the age of 60 after a courageous battle with illness. Peters, affectionately known as Skiphad a profound impact on the Tigers baseball program during his two seasons at the helm.
Peters’ tenure at the University of the Pacific was marked by remarkable achievements, including leading the team to its first-ever West Coast Conference Tournament appearance. His leadership resulted in the program’s first 20-win season of the decade in his inaugural year, followed by a 24-win season in 2026—the most single-season wins since 2014. This success marked the first back-to-back 20-win seasons for the Tigers since 2018-19.
The Impact of Reed Peters on Pacific Baseball
Under Peters’ guidance, the Tigers completed a 15-11-1 West Coast Conference season and secured the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament. They made a memorable entrance into the double-elimination bracket with a walk-off grand slam victory over the San Francisco team. Adam TschuorDirector of Athletics, expressed the collective grief, stating, “No amount of words could possibly convey the tremendous sadness we all feel at the passing of Coach Peters.”
Peters’ influence extended beyond the field. He emphasized establishing an uplifting culture and focusing on the fundamentals of the sport. His dedication and leadership were evident in the Tigers’ four conference series wins in 2026, marking a significant turnaround for the program.
A Legacy of Excellence and Mentorship
Before joining the University of the Pacific, Peters spent 17 seasons as the head coach at San Joaquin Delta Community College in Stockton, where he compiled a 386-167 record. During his tenure, he placed 140 student-athletes at Division I institutions and guided the Mustangs to State Championships in 2011 and 2018. Peters was also recognized as the 2018 American Baseball Coaches Association National Coach of the Year.
Peters’ love for the game began at a young age. A 1984 graduate of Cherry Creek High School in Denver, Coloradohe was one of only three people in the school’s history to earn four varsity letters in baseball. His athletic prowess extended to football, where he was part of Cherry Creek’s first state championship teams in both sports. Peters was inducted into the Cherry Creek High School Hall of Fame in 2006.
Professional Career and Coaching Journey
After his collegiate career at the University of Nevada, Las VegasPeters was drafted by the California Angels in 1987. He played five years in the Angels’ organization, followed by two seasons in the San Francisco Giants organization. Peters finished his professional career with a remarkable batting average, hitting over .300 four times. His versatility was evident as he played all nine positions during his career.
Peters’ coaching journey included a stint at Colby Community College in Colby, Kansaswhere he led the Trojans to the Region VI Championship in his first season. From 1999 to 2003, he coached at the Air Force Academywinning 88 games in four years and being named the 2002 Mountain West Conference Coach of the Year.
Remembering Reed Peters
Peters’ impact on his players was profound. Brendan O’Sullivana former Pacific infielder, shared, “Skip was the greatest coach I’ll ever play for. He always wanted the best for everyone who played for him and cared to make us all better men.” Another former player, Jake Tandyrecalled, “Skip was a mentor and an advocate. He would go to battle for any person he cared for.”
Peters is survived by his wife, Audreyand sons CadeBeauand Drew. The University of the Pacific community, along with the broader baseball world, mourns the loss of a dedicated coach, mentor, and advocate whose legacy will endure for generations.
