HOUSTON — Former Rice University and Houston Astros star Lance Berkman is stepping down as coach of the Houston Christian University baseball team.
Berkman is leaving the program after three years.
"I have truly enjoyed working with the players, coaches and administrators at HCU,” Berkman said in a release posted to the Houston Christian University website. “I was, unfortunately, unable to bring the level of success to the baseball program that I had hoped but I will always be grateful to HCU for the opportunity."
Berkman was hired by Houston Christian University in May of 2021 back when it was Houston Baptist University. This season, the Huskies were 18-31. Last season, they were 11-37 and in 2022, HCU was 18-36. In his time there, Berkman coached six all-Southland Conference players, including 2023 conference batting champ Reed Chumley. He also coached five academic all-SLC players, according to HCU.
HCU Athletics Director Steve Moniaci said Berkman told him of his decision on Thursday.
"While saddened by this news, we want to wish Lance and Cara and his family all the best; and I know they will continue to be big supporters of HCU baseball and of Houston Christian University," Moniaci said.
The search for a new head baseball coach is underway.