Bio

Rich Hernandez, the veteran first base coach for Hart Baseball for the past 27 years, returns to the Indians’ dugout for another season of highlights and thrills.  Coach Hernandez, a long-time youth coach at the Hart Pony Complex, has assisted Coach Bud Murray and Coach Ozella for a long span of victories, and the insightful Hernandez is excited to provide his mentorship for the 2023 squad.  

“Coach Hernandez has been an important factor in our success at Hart Baseball, and his years of experience provide a stable environment for our players.  Coach encourages the players to reach for their goals, and maintains a high standard of excellence for their performance,” said Coach Ozella. “I am indebted to Rich for his years of service to the program and am proud to be coaching in the same dugout as him.”

Coach Hernandez, a retired Santa Clarita US Postal Service supervisor, and his wife Gracie reside in Saugus.  Coach Hernandez’ two sons Brian and Brandon played baseball for competing schools in the Santa Clarita Valley, and made their mark as top-notch players for their respective schools.  Brian pitched for Hart in 1996-1997, while Brandon played first base and pitched for the Centurions of Saugus.