Ozzie Timmons: Giving Back to University of Tampa Baseball
Ozzie Timmons, a 55-year-old Tampa native and current assistant hitting coach for the Tampa Bay Rays, continues to maintain a deep professional and personal connection to the University of Tampa (UT) baseball program. Despite a demanding career in Major League Baseball, Timmons consistently volunteers his time during the fall and winter to mentor student-athletes at his alma mater, reinforcing a legacy of local baseball development that has spanned over three decades.
The University of Tampa baseball program, which has produced numerous professional players including Tino Martinez and Sam Militello, recently achieved the distinction of becoming the first Division II program to secure three consecutive national titles.
The Value of Local Mentorship
For Timmons, the commitment to the University of Tampa is rooted in his own history as a two-time All-American at the school. Having graduated from Brandon High School, Timmons views the university as a vital training ground for players who aim to transition to the professional level. He emphasizes that the university’s practice of scheduling Division I opponents historically provided him with a significant advantage when he entered professional baseball, as he was already accustomed to high-level competition.
Spartans coach Joe Urso notes that Timmons’ presence provides current players with essential perspective. Timmons regularly advises young athletes to prioritize programs where they will receive consistent playing time, rather than chasing the prestige of Division I schools where they might remain on the bench. According to Timmons, the ability to be seen by scouts is the primary factor for any collegiate player with professional aspirations.
The involvement of seasoned professionals like Timmons in collegiate programs serves as a practical bridge for student-athletes. By emphasizing competition and “earning a job” regardless of a player’s background or transfer status, such mentorship creates a professionalized environment that may help players better navigate the high-stakes transition from amateur to professional baseball.
Future Implications for Collegiate Development
As the University of Tampa continues to produce draft picks—ranking fourth in the state of Florida over the past two decades—the model championed by Urso and supported by figures like Timmons may see increased scrutiny from prospects. The program’s ability to compete at a high level despite limited scholarship availability suggests a possible shift in how high-school athletes evaluate their recruitment options.
Looking ahead, the success of this mentorship model could influence how other Division II programs approach their relationships with former players. If the trend of returning professionals providing guidance continues, it is likely to remain a key differentiator for the Spartans, ensuring that incoming players understand the rigorous, competition-based culture required to succeed at the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Ozzie Timmons been involved with the University of Tampa baseball program?
Timmons has been part of the university’s baseball family for 35 years, dating back to his time as a student-athlete before he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs.
What is Timmons’ current role in professional baseball?
He is currently serving as the assistant hitting coach for the Tampa Bay Rays, a role he returned to after a three-season stint as the hitting coach for the Milwaukee Brewers.
Why does Timmons advise players to consider Division II schools?
He argues that players need to go where they will actually play, as scouts can only evaluate talent if a player is consistently on the field, regardless of the division level.
How does the integration of professional experience into college athletics shape the career paths of young players?