Louisville baseball super fan Michael Todd Esser dies at age 45
When the Louisville baseball team resumes practice in the fall, one important member of the program will be absent.
U of L baseball super fan Michael Todd Esser, who went by Todd, died Wednesday afternoon at his Louisville home, his father confirmed to the Courier-Journal.
Esser, who had cerebral palsy, and his wheelchair were a constant presence at U of L practices and games. He was, coach Dan McDonnell told the Courier-Journal, “as close to our program as you could be without getting paid.”
Rutgers adds former Manhattan coach Duffy to Coaching Staff
PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Rutgers baseball head coach Joe Litterio has announced that Jim Duffy has been officially hired as an assistant coach for the Scarlet Knights. An All-American first baseman during his playing days at Seton Hall, Duffy spent the last six seasons as the head coach at Manhattan.
“Jim is a great addition and brings a ton of experience to our staff,” Litterio said. “He is a high-character guy and is a tireless worker who knows what it takes to be successful. I know Jim saw the vision and potential of what this staff could do together in the Big Ten and nationally.”
“I’m honored and thrilled to be joining the Rutgers baseball staff, team and RU community,” Duffy said. “I want to thank our AD Pat Hobbs and coach Litterio for making this tremendous opportunity a reality for me and my family.
“I will always cherish my time at Manhattan College and appreciate their administration for taking a chance on me to be their head coach. The coaches and players I’ve shared my life with on a daily basis at Manhattan over the past six years will always have a special place in my heart. I’ve been very fortunate throughout my coaching career to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry. I’m now excited about representing Rutgers baseball at a high level, giving the program my very best energy and effort each day, and helping the players reach their maximum potential both on and off the field.”
