GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — With head coach Kevin O’Sullivan taking a leave of absence and interim Chuck Jeroloman leaving for Tennessee, Florida hired Tom Slater as associate head coach and acting head coach Friday.

Slater, 57, most recently worked in player development with the Philadelphia Phillies. Before that, he was a senior advisor/minor league hitting coordinator for the Miami Marlins (2021–24).

He also has served as head coach at Auburn (2005–08) and VMI (2001–03), along with assistant coaching roles in the Southeastern Conference at Florida (2004) and Auburn (1995–2000).

“Tom Slater brings a wealth of experience, leadership and deep Gator ties to this role,” Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin said. “With more than three decades in college and professional baseball, includi

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