Savannah State University Athletics is excited to announce the appointment of Florentino “Tino” Burgos as the new head coach of the Tigers’ baseball program. This is a significant moment for the university and the baseball team, as Burgos brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for leading and inspiring young athletes.

Leading the Tigers to Baseball Excellence with Florentino “Tino” Burgos

Experience and Background

Burgos arrives at Savannah State University with an extensive resume. He served as the head coach at Florida Memorial University for eight seasons, during which he transformed the baseball program into one of the most successful in its history. His leadership led to a remarkable run, including a Black College World Series championship in 2023 against Albany State. This achievement showcases his ability to build a winning culture and guide teams to great heights.During his tenure at FMU, Burgos not only focused on on-field success but also emphasized the importance of academic excellence. He understood that a well-rounded athlete is crucial for long-term success, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that his players excelled both on and off the field. His dedication to the players’ academic journeys earned him the title of HBCU Coach of the Year in 2019, when FMU achieved a No. 1 ranking in the Black College Nines National HBCU Baseball Poll.A South Florida native, Burgos began his athletic career at Dade Christian School, where he earned all-state honors and was recognized as one of the top high school players in Florida. His talent and hard work continued to shine as he went on to excel at Seminole State College and Miami Dade College before finishing his collegiate career at Florida International University. At FIU, he made significant contributions to the Panthers’ success, leaving a lasting impact on the program.

2024 Season and Future Prospects

Burgos stepped into his new role with the Tigers following a strong 2024 season. The team achieved a 31-17 record and competed in the NCAA Division II Baseball Tournament, demonstrating their potential and competitiveness. Under Burgos’ leadership, the Tigers are poised to build on this success and continue to make their mark in college baseball.With Burgos at the helm, the future looks bright for Savannah State University’s baseball program. His coaching prowess, combined with his commitment to excellence and his ability to develop players both on and off the field, will undoubtedly lead the Tigers to new heights. Fans and supporters can look forward to seeing the Tigers compete with pride and represent Tiger Nation with distinction.Burgos’ appointment is a significant step forward for Savannah State University’s athletics department. It shows the university’s commitment to providing top-notch coaching and competitive sports programs. As he leads the Tigers into the future, Burgos will be working closely with the SSU Director of Athletics Opio Mashariki to ensure the continued success of the baseball program.Mashariki expressed his enthusiasm about hiring Burgos, stating, “Our search for a new coach required us to do a deep dive to find someone who will continue the success of the program, and I am confident that we have found that person in Coach Burgos. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as we strive to build a strong baseball program at Savannah State University.”Under Burgos’ guidance, the Tigers are ready to take on the challenges of the upcoming season and beyond. With his vision and dedication, they will strive to become a force to be reckoned with in college baseball and make Savannah State University proud.