Kevin O’Sullivan Leave of Absence: Florida Gators Baseball Coach Steps Away Amid Suspension

Florida Gators baseball coach Kevin O’Sullivan is taking an immediate leave of absence. The University of Florida announced the decision on Wednesday. He is stepping away to address personal and family matters.

During his absence, assistant coach Chuck Jeroloman will lead the program on an interim basis. The team is currently in its fall practice period. O’Sullivan expressed his gratitude for the university’s support during this time.

Kevin O’Sullivan Steps Away from Coaching Duties

The leave of absence comes shortly after a separate disciplinary action. Athletic Director Scott Stricklin suspended O’Sullivan for the first three games of the 2026 season. This suspension was a direct result of the coach’s actions at the 2025 NCAA Conway Regional.

According to the Division I Baseball Committee, O’Sullivan was publicly reprimanded. The reprimand cited “aggressive behavior and profanity-laced language” before a game. The incident involved a dispute with NCAA officials over a schedule change.

The committee determined his actions constituted misconduct. This discredited the championship event. The coach apologized for his behavior shortly after the regional game concluded.

Impact on the Florida Gators Baseball Program

This development creates significant uncertainty for the storied program. O’Sullivan is the winningest coach in Florida baseball history. He has led the Gators for 18 seasons, compiling a 756-371 record.

His tenure includes the 2017 national championship and a runner-up finish in 2023. The program has won nine NCAA Super Regionals under his leadership. This absence marks a sudden shift for the team during its critical fall training.

The Gators’ first exhibition game is scheduled for October 31st. Chuck Jeroloman will now oversee all preparations. The team will need to navigate this transition while maintaining its competitive focus.

This Kevin O’Sullivan leave of absence introduces a period of challenge and adjustment for the Florida Gators as they prepare for a new season without their veteran leader.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is coaching the Florida Gators while Kevin O’Sullivan is away?

Assistant coach Chuck Jeroloman is leading the team on an interim basis. He will handle all coaching duties during O’Sullivan’s absence. The change is effective immediately.

Why was Kevin O’Sullivan suspended for three games in 2026?

The suspension stems from his conduct at the 2025 NCAA Conway Regional. He engaged in a heated exchange with NCAA officials over a game time change. The athletic director cited a need to uphold program standards.

What did Kevin O’Sullivan achieve as the Gators’ coach?

He led the team to the 2017 national championship and a 2023 runner-up finish. His overall record with the Gators is 756-371. The program has won nine NCAA Super Regionals under his direction.

How does this affect the Gators’ upcoming season?

The team is currently in its fall practice period. The immediate coaching change could disrupt preparation. Their first exhibition game is still scheduled for October 31st against Jacksonville.

What was the official reason given for his leave?

The university stated he needs to focus on personal and family matters. O’Sullivan requested privacy during this time. The athletic department has expressed its full support for the coach.