BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - Cal State Bakersfield Softball Head Coach Letty Olivarez has announced the hiring of James Davenport as Assistant Coach of the Roadrunners.
Olivarez shared her thoughts on adding Davenport to the Bakersfield coaching staff: "I am truly grateful to have James Davenport as my assistant. His deep knowledge in training and preparing both physically and mentally at a high level is invaluable. His process-oriented mindset perfectly aligns with my coaching approach. James's expertise in all aspects of the game, including hitting, defense, and in-game scenarios, will undoubtedly elevate our play to new heights. With his profound background in athletics and overall training, I am eagerly looking forward to exploring his ideas for daily routines and preparation. Together, we're bound to achieve great things."
Davenport joins the CSUB Softball staff following two years at San José State. He joined the Spartan staff in 2021, and during his three-year tenure, the Spartans won 58 games. Prior to SJSU, Davenport was part of the Texas Tech University Softball staff, serving as the Outfielders coach during the 2020 season.
A Bay Area native, Davenport also spent one season with the San Francisco Giants specializing in personal player development. He assisted with individual work with the Giants, which included the infield, outfield, and catching, as well as hitting and base running.
Cindy Goodmon, Cal State Bakersfield's Softball sport supervisor, said of Davenport's hiring, "We are excited to welcome James to our Roadrunner Family. He brings quality and experience not only as a high caliber player during his collegiate and professional careers, but also as a very capable coach handling various aspects of the softball program."
Davenport got his start coaching in softball as a Volunteer Assistant with fellow Big West program CSUN in 2015. That year, the Matadors finished the season 41-17, capturing a Big West title and making an appearance in the NCAA Regionals, playing #7 UCLA and San Diego State.
Prior to coaching, Davenport was a two-sport professional athlete. He earned the opportunity to play professional baseball and made his debut in 2007 as a member of the Seattle Mariners organization. After leading his team to the AZ Rookie League Championship, Davenport was named the Defensive Player of the Year. Davenport also made a High A Cal League Championship appearance in 2008 before moving on to play with the Joliet Jackhammers in 2009.
Following his lone season coaching at CSUN, Davenport tested the NFL waters in 2014 where he earned a spot on the San Francisco 49ers reserve team. He then attended training camps for the Houston Texans, Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks before eventually retiring.
~GoRunners.com~
