Coaches

*HPBA does background checks before hiring coaches as an added precaution for your players safety!

Sean Danielson – Founder/Owner – Cardinals/Red Sox/Reds 

Sean Danielson, originally from Irving, TX, grew up alongside Hunter and Howie Pence, forming lifelong friendships that ultimately led to the creation of Hunter Pence Baseball Academy. Off the field, Sean is a devoted husband to Ashley Danielson and proud father to Jett and Dash.

Danielson signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2005 out of UTSA (Beep Beep). During his time with the organization, he made headlines by breaking a franchise record with six stolen bases in a single game. In 2007, he was traded to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for right-handed pitcher Joel Piñeiro, spending the next two seasons at Triple-A with the Pawtucket Red Sox of the International League. After becoming a free agent in 2009, he signed with the Cincinnati Reds and played the 2010 season at Double-A with the Carolina Mudcats.

Over his six-year professional career, Danielson established himself as a reliable leadoff hitter, known for his ability to hit for average, disrupt pitchers on the basepaths, and spark an offense. A true switch-hitter with speed, he averaged 20+ stolen bases per season. Defensively, he showcased versatility by playing all three outfield positions and occasionally appearing in the infield. His glove and arm were standouts, as he racked up more than 60 career outfield assists.

A two-time All-Star, Danielson was best known for his top-of-the-order presence, defensive instincts, and ability to impact games in multiple ways, typically revolving around hustle.

Fun Fact: Danielson signed his Free Agent deal in 2005 for $0. The Cardinals only offered him a plane ticket and a pair of red spikes. He took the opportunity, and from that point on he was affectionately referred to as “Spike” Danielson.

Aaron Cunningham -White Sox – Pitching Coordinator/ Director of College Placement and High School Operations

  Matt Coulson – Roving Coach – Hitting/ Catching/ Pitching Instructor

Matt is a former Conroe HS stand out and committed to UT Brownsville as a 1B/OF/LHP.  Since then, Matt has scouted for the Indians for a short stint and has been coaching youth and showcase baseball in the greater Houston area for the last 12 years. Matt is an excellent communicator, making him one of the most high requested instructor in private lessons at HPBA.  Giving back to the youth and teaching baseball the right way is his passion!

Josue Vazquez Aka “Sway” – Head Coach – Infield Coordinator & Hitting Instructor

Born and raised in inner city Chicago. Josuè attended Shawnee State University prior to finishing his collegiate career at Roosevelt University. Since then, Josuè had helped at various Chicago public schools. Prior to relocating to Texas, Josuè was the head infield coordinator and strength and conditions at the Clubhouse athletics. Helping Guide the Chicago Knights 15U to a #20 state ranking. Coach Josuès goal is to help athletes become more comfortable/confident in themselves while paying attention to detail. Ensuring athletes know the difference between doing it until they get it right and doing it until they can’t get it wrong.

Rich Michaud – Trackman Specialist – Pitching & Hitting Instructor

Rich Michaud is originally from Collegeville, Pennsylvania. A former collegiate pitcher at Shippensburg University. Rich played four years at the DII level, developing a deep understanding of pitching mechanics, performance, and the mental side of the game. He transitioned into coaching and hitting/pitching instruction, gaining experience working with athletes of all ages and skill levels. He has coached at the 7th grade level and has worked with multiple Select teams, helping players develop both fundamental skills and game awareness. Rich specializes in integrating modern technology into player development, with extensive knowledge of TrackMan data and how to translate metrics into real, on-field improvement. His approach combines proper mechanics, structured training, and data-driven insights to help athletes maximize their performance.

Enrique Perozo – Temple College – Catching & Hitting Instructor

Enrique “Rick” is a highly accomplished catcher with over three years of collegiate experience, highlighted by a National Championship at Blinn College in 2024. Internationally, he represented Team Venezuela on three occasions and was a member of a Latin American Championship team in 2018. In 2023, he was recognized as one of the top catchers in the state, earning a #9 ranking. Rick brings over six years of advanced training alongside professional catchers, combined with four years of experience providing private catching and hitting instruction. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he connects effectively with athletes from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. His coaching focuses on elite-level catching development, including advanced framing techniques, improving throw-down mechanics and pop times, and teaching catchers how to control and manage the game from behind the plate. He emphasizes game-like drills, situational training, and confidence-building to help players perform at a high level when it matters most. Now that he has completed his collegiate career, Rick is dedicated to passing on his knowledge and experience, helping the next generation of catchers elevate their game and reach their full potential.

Jake Combs – Southern Illinois –  Pitching/ Fielding/ Hitting Instructor

Jake Combs is a Cy Ranch High School alum where he starred as both a shortstop and right-handed pitcher. He continued his playing career at Navarro College from 2020–2021, emerging as one of the top junior college arms in the country. In 2021, he was named Pitcher of the Year, earned 1st Team All-Region honors, and was recognized as a 2nd Team JUCO All-American.

Combs went on to compete at the Division I level at Southern Illinois University from 2022–2024. During his time with the Salukis, he earned 2nd Team All-Missouri Valley Conference honors in 2023 and was named the MVC Preseason Pitcher of the Year in 2024.

Following his collegiate career, Combs transitioned into coaching, serving as the pitching coach at Cy Ridge High School from 2025–2026. His experience as a high-level competitor and award-winning pitcher brings valuable knowledge and leadership to developing athletes.

Seth Overbey – Blue Jays – Pitching & Hitting Instructor

Seth Overbey graduated in 2002 from McDonough High School in Pomfret, MD where he was a decorated three-sport athlete, playing baseball, football and basketball.  He was named the SMAC player of the year, All-Extra player of the year and McDonogh MVP in both 2001 and 2002, 2001 and 2002 county player of the year, selected to play in the 2002 Crown Senior All-Star game,  and was a Washington Post All-Met selection as a junior and senior.  Seth showed his glimpses of his future pitching prowess by compiling a 17-1 record over his junior and senior seasons, in addition to throwing three shutouts and one no-hitter.  During those two years recorded 166 strikeouts and had a .408 batting average in both years.  He played four seasons at the University of Maryland where he switched to throwing side arm for his senior season.  He was drafted in 2006 by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 15th round.   The next stop was playing short season in Auburn, NY where he posted a 4-2 record with a 2.42 ERA.  Seth started the 2007 season in Low-A Lansing, MI where he began the year without giving up a run for 24.2 innings with 7 saves.  This performance earned him a promotion to High Class-A Dunedin, FL.  He only gave up one run in 10 innings before being promoted to AA New Hampshire, where he finished the 2007 season.  Seth played the whole 2008 season in New Hampshire where he was 3rd in the league in appearances.  He posted a 4-3 record with a 4.12 ERA.  In 2009 he played with the Independent New Jersey Jackals and led the Can-Am League in appearances with 41 while posting a 3.80 ERA.  He went on to play the 2010 season with the Pensacola Pelicans in the American Association.  He closed the door for the Pelicans and led the team with 9 saves and a 3.09 ERA.

Phillip Allen – UTSA – Head Coach – Hitting/Fielding/Strength Instructor

Phillip Allen is a former standout at Kempner High School and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he competed at the Division I level as an outfielder and switch hitter. During his four-year career at UTSA, Phillip was a consistent contributor, appearing in over 100 collegiate games while producing offensively and ultimately earning the role of Team Captain as a senior.

Following his playing career, Phillip joined Hunter Pence Baseball Academy in 2012 and has since become one of the most respected and accomplished coaches in the program. With over a decade of experience, he is known for developing players at a high level while holding them to elite standards. His coaching style combines accountability, energy, and a genuine investment in each athlete—allowing him to consistently bring out the best in his players and prepare them for success at the next level.

Off the field, Phillip has built a successful career in the oil & gas industry, where his leadership, discipline, and ability to build meaningful relationships have allowed him to thrive. He is also a devoted father to his three daughters, and his character, values, and commitment to mentorship make him an outstanding role model for young athletes.

Mitchell Andrews – Bossier Parish College – Head Coach & Hitting, Fielding and Pitching Instructor

Mitchell Andrews has quickly become one of most popular coaches.  This is no surprise considering he’s been apart of the HP fam since he was 13.  After being an HP and Cy-Fair stand out, Andrews went on to play D1 juco baseball at Bossier Parish College. His career was cut short due to a severe ankle injury that limited his ability to run and move side to side.  Now that he is back home, he is ready to keep his love for the game going by coaching youngsters.  Due to his passion for baseball, he has this inapt ability to connect with players and gain trust.  We believe that is why he gets so much out of his students.

Matt Rabe – Trackman Specialist –  Pitching Instructor

HP is thrilled to announce our new partnership with Matt Rabe, Texas Rangers Minor League Pitching Coach. Matt specializes in video analysis, biomechanics, and Trackman analytics. These insights from a professional will help maximize pitch efficiency and give clear guidance on pitchers strengths and weaknesses.

Connor Bubb (HP Alum) – Head Coach

Connor Bubb an HP alum, was a 4 year letterman and 3 time All-District player out of Mayde Creek HS. Bubb was able to contribute at literally every position through his HS career and the team never skipped a beat. His high baseball IQ was one of his greatest assets along with being an absolute pest at the plate. Bubb’s ability to get on base, steal a base and hit for power was why he always hit between 1-3 in the line up. Bubb enjoyed and appreciated his playing days so much with HP that he’s come back and has become one of HP’s best coaches & instructors. Now in his 6th year of being a Head Coach, Bubb takes a ton of pride in running great practices, winning ball games and teaching baseball the HP way!  

Matt Morris –  Head Coach – Hitting & Pitching Instructor

Matt is a local product growing up in Kingwood, Texas where he played for Kingwood High School and developed a love for baseball that shaped his desire to coach. He attended Sam Houston State University earning a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Kinesiology. Since graduating he has been part of the Porter High School Baseball staff at all levels, helping them achieve their first successful playoff run in 2016 and subsequence runs since. While at Porter he’s had the opportunity to help develop numerous players reach their goals of playing college baseball across the nation. “I love to help young men develop their talent and see them go on to realize their dreams – maximizing their ability” is the driving force behind Matt’s coaching philosophy. The three pillars he teaches is Confidence, Compete, and Consistency in all aspects of life. He knows what it takes to play at the next level and is known for helping kids achieve their best.

Cord Cockrell – Southern Mississippi University – Pitching Instructor

A former NCAA Division I pitcher at The University of Southern Miss who brings elite, high-level playing experience and specialized tactical knowledge to players looking to elevate their game. Having competed and won at the highest level of collegiate baseball, Cord specializes in pitching mechanics, arm care, and mastering the mental approach on the mound.

Cord earned All-Conference honors during his standout collegiate career in Conference USA. A proven competitor across elite summer collegiate circuits, he also secured All-Star selections while pitching in both the West Coast League and the Northwoods League. He was selected Pitcher of the Year during his time in the West Coast League. Cord believes that true velocity and longevity on the mound comes from a foundation of perfect biomechanics and arm health. His training programs are designed to strip away bad habits, prevent injuries, and build explosive power. Whether working with a youth player learning the basics or a high school athlete preparing for college, Cord builds personalized frameworks that deliver measurable results. Cord is an experienced baseball coach who has served on the coaching staffs at both Meridian Community College and Wharton County Junior College. Leveraging his extensive background as an elite collegiate pitcher, he has dedicated his career to developing and mentoring the next generation of student-athletes.

Catching Instructor

Nolan McClosky brings years of high-level playing and coaching experience to every lesson. A standout at Hargrave High School, Nolan earned 1st Team All-District honors before continuing his career at Concordia University–Texas.

After his playing days, he turned his passion for baseball into developing the next generation of athletes. He has coached with some of the top programs in Texas, including the Austin Wings, Georgetown High School, Cypress Ranch High School, and CE King High School. Along the way, Nolan has helped numerous players reach their dreams of competing at the college and even professional level.

Specializing in hitting, catching, and infield development, Nolan is known for transforming swings, sharpening defensive skills, and instilling the confidence players need to succeed on the field. Whether your player’s goal is making the varsity roster, earning a college scholarship, or preparing for the pros, Nolan has the knowledge and proven track record to guide them there.

Christian Heard aka “Heardy”- Alvin College -Showcase/College Coach – Catching/Hitting/Fielding Instructor

Christian Heard is a 2 year Letterman at Cy Fair High School and graduated in 2012.  Christian followed his dream and played his 2013 campaign at Northlake College and then transferred to Alvin College for the 2014 season.  Heard was an asset to every team he played for with his a ability to play every position on the field.  His specialty is in the middle infield with some very fast but soft hands.  As a left handed batter, Christian was a rock at the top of the line up.  His ability to spray the ball to all fields, move runners and hit the long ball was a coaches dream.  Heard is now a coach and instructor at HP, his ability to connect with players is second to none.  Christian specializes in defensive instruction, and is one of the higher regarded defensive coaches in the region. 

Marshawn Taylor – AZ Diamondbacks – Assistant Coach – Hitting, Fielding Instructor

During his career at Grambling State, Taylor collected numerous (SWAC) honors in 2017, including: SWAC Player of the Year SWAC Hitter of the Year SWAC Newcomer of the Year 1st Team All-SWAC Shortstop In 2018, Taylor’s hard work and success got him drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 28th round of the MLB Draft. Before transferring to Grambling State, he attended Eastern Illinois University and was originally drafted out of high school by the Seattle Mariners in 2013, choosing instead to continue his baseball journey through college. Known for his ability to hit for average and consistently make contact, Taylor primarily played shortstop, second base, and third base throughout his career. Over his final two collegiate seasons, he hit above .400 both years, started all 104 games, totaled 170 hits, scored 100 runs, and stole 36 bases. Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Taylor is passionate about giving back to the next generation of athletes. He takes pride in mentoring and encouraging young ball players, helping them develop not only their baseball skills, but also the work ethic, discipline, and confidence needed to succeed both on and off the field.

Ruben Cano – Head Coach – Hitting, Fielding Instructor

Stephen Michalek – Head Coach – Pitching, hitting Instructor

Torreon Woods – Head Coach – Pitching, Hitting Instructor

Torreon Woods, a Houston native, pitched collegiately at Grambling State University out of the bullpen playing under now Manager of the New York Yankees AA affiliate, Somerset Patriots, James Cooper. He graduated in the Spring of 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Prior to attending Grambling State, he briefly attended Shawnee State University before transferring to Albany State and later Cedar Valley College. Following his collegiate career, Woods began working within Major League Baseball for the Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and New York Mets in the scouting department as a scout with responsibilities spanning from South Texas to the Midwest scouting the nations top high school and college prospects. He currently has one player he drafted and signed reach the big leagues, Peyton Pallette of the Cleveland Guardians, whom he drafted out of University of Arkansas in the 2nd Round of the 2021 MLB Draft. He also has multiple players currently competing in the upper levels of Minor League Baseball. Woods also annually attends the Buck O’Neil Pro Scouts and Coaches Conference to sharpen his education, professional development as well as continue networking with others. During his time as a scout with the White Sox, Woods coached at the prestigious Area Code Games alongside several of the nation’s top prospects, including Jackson Holliday, Noah Schultz, Colson Montgomery, Dillon Head, Dante Nori and Max Clark. He looks forward to bringing a wealth of knowledge, trust, player development, and passion to the next generation of athletes while instilling confidence, discipline, and leadership both on and off the field.

Christian Diaz –  Houston Christian University – Pitching Instructor

Christian Diaz is a Frontier League pitcher who combines professional experience with a kinesiology background to help athletes reach their peak performance. After a standout collegiate career at Blinn, Cedar Valley, Centenary (LA), and Houston Christian, he excelled in the 2024 MLB Draft League with the Frederick Keys, posting a 1.91 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over 18 appearances. His success earned him a professional contract with the Washington Wild Things in 2025. Christian specializes in:

• Pitching Mechanics & Velocity Development – maximizing power through efficient movement.

• Arm Care & Injury Prevention – building strength and durability.

• Mental Game Training – preparing pitchers to thrive under pressure.

• Joseph Jorge – 2025  Coach Hitting & Pitching Instructor

  

Seasonal Instructors

Howie Pence – Co-owner – Padres/Astros – Director of West Coast Operations(seasonal)

Howie Pence was born in Fort Worth Texas October 1, 1979. He graduated from Arlington High School in 1998 where he lettered one year in baseball. He played collegiately at Sam Houston State University for two years where he suffered a torn UCL ligament. The next two years he spent rehabilitating and then resurfaced in 2003 as a fifth year senior at the University of Texas in Arlington. In June of 2003 he was signed as a non drafted free agent by the San Diego Padres out of a MLB scouting bureau tryout. He played in the Padres organization until 2006 reaching High Class A ball in Lake Elsinore California. In 2006 he played for the Winnipeg Goldeyes in the Northern League and was named to the Northern League All Star Team. By the end of the season his contract was purchased by the Houston Astros, and he finished the season with the Salem Avalanche.  Howie now resides in Southern California with his wife Allison and there five beautiful children, Hayley-Jane, Striker, Ace, Maverick & Paisley-Kay.

Mike Williams –  White Sox RHP – UST Recruiting Coordinator – Pitching/Recruiting

Coach Mike Williams brings over 20 years of coaching experience to HP and currently serves as the Recruiting Coordinator for the University of St. Thomas in Houston. His extensive background in player development and leadership at both the high school and select levels has made him a highly respected figure in the baseball community.

Before his coaching career, Williams was selected in the MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox, where he played five seasons. During his professional career, he was recognized as a top organizational prospect and earned honors as the 1998 Rolaids Relief Pitcher of the Year.

A dedicated mentor, husband and father, Williams continues to invest his time and passion into helping athletes succeed on and off the field.

Will Spears – Delgado, Arkansas LR, University of Memphis – Head Coach – Hitting and Infield Instructor 

Will Spears Jr. is a former collegiate and professional baseball player with experience at the University of Memphis, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and Delgado Community College. A passionate advocate for player development and scouting, Will has gained valuable insight through his work with Major League Baseball’s Diversity Scout & Coaching Pipeline in the prestigious Arizona Fall League. There, he collaborated with top-tier scouts, including Greg Orr, Fred Wright, and Ron Marginy, to evaluate talent and produce detailed scouting reports.

Will’s expertise in training and development is further highlighted by his participation in USA Baseball’s Breakthrough Series (2016-2019), as well as his specialized infield instruction under the guidance of Los Angeles Angels Manager Ron Washington in both 2019 and 2021. As a player, he competed in the MLB Appalachian League (2021-2022) and the MLB Draft League (2021), refining his skills and performance at an elite level.

Will is excited to work with share his knowledge and passion with youngsters in the Houston area!

Peyton Chatagnier – Ole Miss, TCU – Head Coach & Hitting/Fielding Instructor

JJ Goss (HP Alum) – 2019 1st Round Pick – Tampa Bay Rays – Pitching Instructor(seasonal)

Joining the HP program as a sophomore out of Cy-Ranch HS, Goss immediately became an impact player and leader on the field.  His ability to attack hitters and command the strike zone is incredible for his age. This lead to him committing to Texas A&M University, his childhood dream school.  Although he never ended up at A&M it was for good reason.  He was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the first round of the 2019 MLB draft. Recently his fastball has been clocked at 98mph, slider 88mph and change up in the low 80’s.  Goss is a seasonal instructor for us for obvious reasons, but when he is home do not miss out on the opportunity to work with one of the games young up and coming stars!

Wallace Greene – Corpus A&M – Head Coach & Hitting Instructor

Wallace is a graduate of Lamar high school and played D1 college baseball at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.  His strengths as a player was his versatility to produce power numbers at the plate, high velocities on the mound and was a brick wall behind the plate.  Since hanging up the spikes, Wallace has found more gratification in coaching than playing.  His ability to push, inspire and discipline players in a positive way is second to none. Coach Greene has led his 2025 graduate team to a top 50 national ranking on Perfect Game.

Ryan Patterson – Blue Jays/Tigers/Marlins/D-Backs –  Hitting Instructor

Ryan Patterson started his career at Texarkana Junior college. There he won the honors of freshman of the year and played along-side of childhood teammate Hunter Pence. From there Patterson went to LSU, where in his three year stint as a tiger he shattered several school records. By 2005 Patterson had lead his team to the college world series twice and was in the running for the Golden Spike award among many other awards. Soon after his Sr year, he was selected in the 4th round of MLB amateur draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. In his 6 years of playing pro ball, Patterson has made several All-Star teams, has over 100 career homers, and once had a game where he went 6-6 with three home runs, two doubles and nine RBIs. Patterson was also recently inducted in the LSU Hall of Fame.