Bevill State Hires Former Big League Pitcher As Head Baseball Coach

FAYETTE, AL — Bevill State Community College this week announced that former big leaguer Steve Woodard has been hired as the school's next head baseball coach.

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Woodard is a native of Hartselle, played college baseball at the University of Tennessee and went on to a seven-year career in Major League Baseball.

"As the newly appointed head baseball coach at Bevill State Community College, Steve Woodard brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a deep-rooted passion for the game," Bevill State Community College President Joel Hagood said. "His commitment to excellence, coupled with his proven track record of success, positions him as a transformative leader poised to elevate Bevill State’s baseball program to new heights. Join us in welcoming Steve Woodard as the newest addition to the Bevill State family."

At Hartselle, Woodward led his team to three state championships, with an additional runner-up finish and took his talents to Knoxville to pitch for the Volunteers.

He was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 5th round of the 1994 draft and made his Major League Baseball debut at the age of 22, facing off against his childhood idol, Roger Clemens.

Woodard won his debut 1-0, striking out 12 batters while allowing just one hit.

Over seven seasons in the big leagues, Woodard earned two Opening Day starts and logged service time for the Milwaukee Brewers, Cleveland Indians, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, Oakland A’s, and Miami Marlins.

“I am truly honored to join the Bevill State family," Woodard said. "I am deeply impressed by the players’ enthusiasm and determination to achieve excellence. They are hungry to do great things for the rest of the year. My family and I embark on this new journey with great excitement and anticipation."

Woodard then transitioned into the world of sports analysis and worked as an analyst for the American Legion World Series on ESPN in Shelby, North Carolina.

Woodard is married to Brooke Sawyer, a kindergarten teacher at TR Simmons Elementary School in Jasper and has two stepsons, Preston and Parker Sawyer.

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