PHOENIX, AZ - Grand Canyon University has selected former Major Leaguer Andy Stankiewicz as the baseball program's new head coach.

“Grand Canyon University is excited to have Andy Stankiewicz lead our baseball program,” Grand Canyon University CEO Brian Mueller said. “Historically, baseball is one of the key programs in our athletics department. We believe that Andy is a key component in returning this program to prominence.”

Stankiewicz, 46, becomes the fourth head coach in the history of the GCU’s baseball program. Most recently, he held the position of minor league field coordinator for the Seattle Mariners.

Prior to his stint with the Mariners, Stankiewicz was a member of the Arizona State University baseball coaching staff from 2007-09. He helped guide the Sun Devils to three Pac-10 Championships and two appearances in the College World Series.

“I am honored and privileged to be named head baseball coach at Grand Canyon University,” Stankiewicz said. “The mission statement of Grand Canyon University is one that I will be proud to pursue with our players and coaching staff. Faith, character and leadership will be cornerstones of the program as they are with the university.”

Stankiewicz also brings to GCU a professional coaching background, having served as manager for the New York Yankees NY-Penn League team in Staten Island. While there, he guided Staten Island to the NY-Penn League Championship in 2005.

“Grand Canyon University is a program rich in baseball history and winning tradition,” Stankiewicz said. “We are indebted to all who have coached and played before us, and will strive to uphold the tradition and legacy they have built.”

Stankiewicz was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 12^th round of the 1986 First-Year Player Draft. He made his Major League debut with the Yankees on April 11, 1992. Stankiewicz played in parts of seven Major League seasons, with the Yankees (1992-93), Houston Astros (1994-95), Montreal Expos (1996-97) and the inaugural season of the Arizona Diamondbacks in 1998.

Stankiewicz was a standout infielder at Pepperdine University and ranks in the schools top 10 in runs scored (172), triples (9), at-bats (755), stolen bases (101) and games played (220).