Ep. 47: From the Dugout to the Helm: Joey Noro’s Journey at California (PA)

Want to be a part of a vibrant and growing community of baseball fans? Consider joining the D2 Baseball Patreon! patreon.com/diviibaseballTune in to our second episode of the 2025 D2 Baseball Coaching Changes Series, as we talk to Cal U Head Coach Joey Noro!Noro discusses his transition into the new role after serving as a staff member for nearly a decade. A Western Pennsylvania native, Noro expresses how "super humbling" it is to lead a program so close to home.In the interview, he outlines his coaching philosophy and vision for the team. He plans to continue building on the program's success while avoiding complacency, especially after a record-setting 38-win and regional season. Noro believes the team must play with a "chip on our shoulder" and be ready for every opponent's "best shot".As a former pitching coach, he confirms he will remain heavily involved with the pitching staff and credits their past success to the players' hard work and their view of pitching as a "craft" . Noro's recruiting strategy focuses on finding athletes with "tools" and building on them, trusting his gut over just metrics, and getting to know the players and their families .He also details his plans for the team's offense and defense. He believes the new offensive lineup is unique in its athleticism and ability to "put the ball in play," while the defense will emphasize adaptability by training players in multiple positions .Finally, Noro shares his desire to connect with the Cal U community and alumni. He sees them as the reason the program exists and wants them to know they have a voice and an ear in him. He wants fans to see a team that "play[s] hard, they play tough, they play clean," and will "find a way to to get one more run on the board than the other team" .Watch the full interview for more on Coach Noro's plans for Cal U baseball!