BREAKING NEWS – Kansas State University has announced a contract extension for head baseball coach Pete Hughes, securing his leadership through 2029
In a major announcement for the Kansas State Wildcats baseball program, Kansas State University has officially extended the contract of head coach Pete Hughes, securing his leadership through the 2029 season. The decision comes on the heels of several seasons of measurable improvement and increased competitiveness within the Big 12 Conference, signaling the university’s firm commitment to building a sustainable and successful baseball program.
Hughes, who took over the program in 2019, has steadily guided the Wildcats toward national relevance. Known for his passionate leadership style, tireless recruiting efforts, and a strong emphasis on player development both on and off the field, Hughes has cultivated a culture of accountability, resilience, and competitiveness within the K-State clubhouse. Under his guidance, Kansas State has not only improved its win totals but also gained respect across the collegiate baseball landscape.
“This is a great day for Kansas State baseball,” said Athletic Director Gene Taylor in a statement. “Coach Hughes has brought a new level of energy and commitment to this program. We believe in the direction he’s taking this team, and this contract extension is a reflection of that belief. Our student-athletes are excelling on the field and in the classroom, and that’s a direct result of Pete’s leadership.”
Since his arrival in Manhattan, Hughes has emphasized building a winning culture based on toughness, work ethic, and integrity. The Wildcats have seen steady improvement in conference play and have consistently been in postseason contention. Most recently, the team made a strong push in the Big 12 tournament and was considered a bubble team for the NCAA Regionals—an impressive leap from where the program stood before his arrival.
Coach Hughes expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm following the extension announcement. “I’m incredibly honored and thankful to continue leading this program,” Hughes said. “Kansas State is a special place, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. But there’s so much more work to be done, and I’m excited about the future. Our goal is to build something that lasts—a program that consistently competes at the highest level.”
Hughes has also been instrumental in driving facility upgrades and enhancing the program’s visibility. His advocacy helped propel the recent renovations to Tointon Family Stadium, which now offers a more fan-friendly environment and upgraded training facilities for student-athletes. These improvements have played a key role in recruiting top-tier talent and raising the profile of Kansas State baseball on a national scale.
The Wildcats’ progress under Hughes has also been reflected in the MLB Draft, with multiple players being selected over the past few seasons. His track record in developing pro-ready talent has not gone unnoticed, and it has further strengthened the Wildcats’ reputation as a program on the rise.
With the extension now in place through 2029, the future looks bright for Kansas State baseball. The administration’s decision to invest in Coach Hughes signals a strong alignment between the athletic department’s long-term goals and the direction Hughes envisions for the program. The continuity in leadership will also provide a stable foundation for recruiting and player development, ensuring that the team remains competitive in the ever-challenging Big 12 landscape.
As Kansas State fans look ahead to the coming seasons, there’s a growing sense of optimism surrounding the program. The Wildcats are poised to take the next step—one that could include consistent postseason appearances, conference title runs, and a return to the College World Series conversation. With Pete Hughes at the helm, Kansas State is no longer just a tough opponent—they’re a legitimate threat.
In a sport where consistency and vision are key, Kansas State University has made a clear and confident statement: Pete Hughes is the right man to lead th
is program forward.