Duke Hires Corey Muscara to Lead Baseball Program After Chris Pollard’s Departure to Virginia DURHAM, N.C. — Duke University has announced the hiring of Corey Muscara as its new head baseball coach, securing the highly regarded pitching coach with a five-year contract. The move comes in the wake of longtime head coach Chris Pollard’s departure to the University of Virginia, ending a 13-year tenure that reshaped Duke baseball into a perennial ACC contender…

Duke Hires Corey Muscara to Lead Baseball Program After Chris Pollard’s Departure to Virginia

DURHAM, N.C. — Duke University has announced the hiring of Corey Muscara as its new head baseball coach, securing the highly regarded pitching coach with a five-year contract. The move comes in the wake of longtime head coach Chris Pollard’s departure to the University of Virginia, ending a 13-year tenure that reshaped Duke baseball into a perennial ACC contender.

 

Muscara joins the Blue Devils from Wake Forest, where he served as the Demon Deacons’ pitching coach and played a key role in building one of the most dominant pitching staffs in college baseball. In 2023, under his guidance, Wake Forest led the nation with a 2.83 ERA and topped multiple statistical categories, including strikeout-to-walk ratio and WHIP. His success earned him national recognition as D1Baseball’s Assistant Coach of the Year.

“Corey is one of the most innovative and respected minds in college baseball,” said Duke Athletic Director Nina King in a statement. “His track record in developing elite pitchers, his passion for student-athlete success, and his familiarity with the ACC made him the ideal choice to lead our program into its next chapter.”

Muscara inherits a program with strong recent momentum. Under Pollard, Duke reached four NCAA Super Regionals (2018, 2019, 2023, 2025) and captured ACC Tournament titles in 2021 and 2024. Pollard departs as the winningest coach in program history, posting a 420–296 record and transforming the Blue Devils into a consistent postseason presence.

“Chris built something really special here, and I’m honored to follow in his footsteps,” Muscara said at his introductory press conference. “Duke is a place that values both athletic and academic excellence. I’m excited to get to work with our players and staff to build on that foundation and compete for championships.”

Muscara’s hire signals a shift in Duke’s strategic emphasis, particularly on pitching development. His reputation for analytical acumen and player development aligns with the program’s broader investment in facilities and performance infrastructure. Several Blue Devil pitchers have already expressed enthusiasm about his arrival, even as the program navigates potential roster changes due to the coaching transition.

The timing of the hire was crucial for Duke. With the NCAA transfer portal open and summer recruiting in full swing, securing a high-profile coach quickly helps stabilize the program and maintain continuity.

Pollard, who accepted the Virginia job earlier this month, cited a desire for a new challenge and personal ties to the state of Virginia as part of his decision. His departure was met with gratitude from the Duke community, including tributes from current and former players.

Muscara’s contract reportedly includes incentives tied to postseason performance and player development metrics. The five-year deal underscores Duke’s long-term confidence in his leadership.

“This is a program with high standards and high aspirations,” Muscara said. “I’m ready to embrace that challenge and help this team reach new heights.”

Muscara will begin his tenure immediately, overseeing summer workouts and recruiting efforts as Duke prepares for the 2026 season.