Posted: Jun 03, 2026
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg College Assistant Baseball Coach Wilfredo Rodriguez has been hired by the Atlanta Braves to be a coach within their organization, marking the next step in a baseball journey that began as a professional player in the Colorado Rockies organization and evolved into a successful collegiate coaching career with the Titans.
Rodriguez spent the past three seasons on the SPC coaching staff, where he quickly established himself as one of the program's most respected instructors. Initially brought in to oversee the development of the Titans' catchers, Rodriguez's impact extended throughout the program, earning him an expanded role as the team's full-time hitting coach during the 2026 season while continuing to work with the catchers.
"I want to thank St. Petersburg College for giving me the opportunity to begin my coaching career at the collegiate level," Rodriguez said. "I am incredibly grateful for everything I learned at SPC and for everyone who was part of that journey."
Rodriguez also expressed gratitude to Head Coach Oscar Espada, who has played a significant role in his baseball development for more than a decade.
"A special thank you to Oscar Espada, my coach, mentor, and friend," Rodriguez added. "Since I was 15 years old, I have had the privilege of learning from him—not only as a player, but also as a coach over the last four years. His guidance, knowledge, and leadership have had a tremendous impact on my development both on and off the field."
Espada, who first met Rodriguez in Puerto Rico when Rodriguez was a high school player, said the promotion is a well-deserved opportunity for one of the game's rising coaching talents.
"Wilfredo and I have history," Espada said. "We met in Puerto Rico when he was in high school. He's always been ahead of his time. He has always been an extremely hard worker and has definitely earned this opportunity. The Braves are lucky to have him."
Rodriguez's influence on the SPC program was felt far beyond the catchers. Known for his ability to connect with players and teach both the physical and mental aspects of the game, he became an invaluable resource for the Titans' student-athletes.
"Wil had a huge impact on our guys," Espada said. "Not only did he work on our catchers' physical skills, but also on the mental aspect."
Recognizing Rodriguez's ability to teach hitting and develop offensive approaches, Espada promoted him to full-time hitting coach this past season while maintaining his responsibilities with the catchers.
"It was a no-brainer," Espada added. "We share the same hitting philosophy, and he had already been assisting in that role. His talent for teaching is unquestionable."
Under Rodriguez's guidance, the Titans continued their offensive success, posting their fourth consecutive season batting over .300 as a team.
Now, Rodriguez takes his talents to the professional ranks with one of Major League Baseball's premier organizations. As coach for the Atlanta Braves, he will oversee the development of catchers, hitters throughout the club's minor league system, among other duties helping shape the next generation of professional talent. Rodriguez added, "Once a Titan, Always a Titan."
While SPC will miss Rodriguez's daily presence, his impact on the program and its players will continue to be felt for years to come.
The entire St. Petersburg College baseball family congratulates Wilfredo Rodriguez on this outstanding achievement and wishes him continued success with the Atlanta Braves organization.
