Rex Gonzalez named new Desert Vista baseball coach

Desert Vista High School in Phoenix has welcomed a new head baseball coach, Rex Gonzalez, who is the brother of former Arizona Diamondbacks' star Luis Gonzalez. Gonzalez was appointed on July 10 and officially approved by the Tempe Union High School District governing board on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Principal Stacy White expressed enthusiasm for Gonzalez's leadership and contributions to the school's baseball program.

Gonzalez's son, Chase, a junior at Phoenix Pinnacle, had a successful freshman season, batting .320 with 27 RBIs in 25 games last season. Gonzalez is known for founding T-Rex, a youth club baseball program, and serving as a volunteer assistant at Pinnacle two seasons ago, where he faced controversy after a player quit amid a dispute.

Gonzalez was previously involved in the coaching world, managing and coaching professionally, and acknowledged that criticism is inevitable in the industry. He follows Pat Herrera, who was suspended and later dismissed as head coach in April, with Matt Garvy serving as interim coach. Gonzalez looks forward to the challenge ahead, praising the school's administration, parents, and students.

Richard Obert, a veteran sports reporter for The Arizona Republic, covered high school sports for over three decades and reported on Gonzalez's appointment.