August "Augie" Garrido (February 6, 1939 – March 15, 2018) was an American college baseball coach whose long career left a lasting mark on the collegiate game. Born in Vallejo, California, Garrido built programs noted for preparation, fundamentals and consistent postseason success. Over more than four decades as a head coach he became synonymous with program-building, player development and a deliberate, situational approach to the game.

Early life and playing background

Garrido grew up playing baseball and spent time as a professional player in the minor leagues before turning to coaching. His experience as a player influenced a practical, detail-oriented teaching style: emphasis on defense, pitching, smart base-running and game management. Those roots in playing and early coaching work informed the habits and routines he later required of his teams.

Coaching career and achievements

Garrido is best known for his long tenures at Cal State Fullerton and the University of Texas, where he turned relatively modest programs into national contenders. He retired in 2016 with a career record of 1,975–919–9, the most wins in NCAA Division I history at the time. His teams made many College World Series appearances and won five national championships—three while at Cal State Fullerton and two with Texas—accomplishments that put both programs among the elite in college baseball.

Coaching philosophy and methods

Central to Garrido's philosophy was preparation: practice routines that emphasized situational play, mental readiness and attention to fundamentals. He encouraged players to think through plays, anticipate situations and handle pressure. Garrido was known for teaching the mental side of the game as much as the physical: his practices often reinforced decision-making, teamwork and consistency rather than relying solely on talent.

Player development and influence

Garrido developed many players who advanced to professional baseball and mentored numerous assistants who later became head coaches, a ripple effect often described as a coaching tree. Observers credited him with helping elevate college baseball as a developmental route to higher levels of the sport by showing how systematic coaching and program culture yield sustained success.

Recognition and legacy

Beyond championships and wins, Garrido's legacy includes the programs he shaped and the generations of players and coaches who adopted elements of his approach. He received widespread recognition within the college baseball community and is frequently cited in discussions of the sport's most influential coaches. His emphasis on fundamentals, preparation and the mental aspects of competition influenced how many college teams prepare for postseason play.

Final years and passing

In March 2018 Garrido suffered a stroke. He died three days later in Newport Beach, California. His death prompted tributes from former players, colleagues and institutions that highlighted both his on-field accomplishments and his role as a mentor. Memorials and remembrances emphasized his impact on the collegiate game and the personal influence he had on those who played for or worked with him.

  • Retired in 2016 with 1,975 wins, the most in NCAA Division I history at the time.
  • Led programs to multiple College World Series appearances and five national championships.
  • Remembered for program-building, player development and a teaching-focused coaching style.

Garrido's name remains closely associated with modern college baseball: his methods, emphasis on preparation and steady clubhouse culture are still reflected in many programs. Whether measured by championships, wins or the careers of those he influenced, his contributions are a central part of the sport's recent history.