BREAKING NEWS: Bronco Mendenhall’s Move to MLB Sparks Controversy, Sends Message to BYU’s Kalani Sitake
In an unexpected and bizarre twist in the sports world, former BYU football head coach Bronco Mendenhall has taken on a new role as the bench coach for the New York Yankees. While the transition from college football to Major League Baseball is virtually unheard of, what’s making even bigger waves is a cryptic message Mendenhall reportedly sent to current BYU head coach Kalani Sitake, raising questions and stirring controversy across both collegiate and professional sports communities.
Mendenhall, who led BYU football from 2005 to 2015, was known for his intense discipline, strategic mind, and deep commitment to the development of student-athletes. After leaving BYU, he coached at the University of Virginia before stepping away from coaching in 2021. Since then, he had largely been out of the spotlight—until now.
His return to sports in a completely different arena shocked fans and analysts alike. The Yankees organization confirmed Mendenhall’s addition to the bench coaching staff last week, citing his leadership experience and analytical approach to team building as reasons for the unorthodox hire.
But the sports world was thrown into further speculation after Mendenhall posted a cryptic message on social media, tagged with Sitake’s handle. The post, which read simply “Leadership is tested in transition. Never forget your roots,” was vague but has led to widespread interpretation.
Some have taken the message as a subtle criticism of how Sitake is handling the current BYU program. After a rocky 2024 season and growing concerns over recruitment and development, BYU fans have become more vocal in questioning the direction under Sitake’s leadership. Mendenhall’s post has only added fuel to the fire.
Others believe the message was meant as encouragement, reminding Sitake of the foundational values and culture built during Mendenhall’s tenure. Supporters of this interpretation point to the respect the two coaches have publicly shown for each other over the years, though neither has commented directly on their current relationship.
Adding to the drama is the mystery of why Mendenhall would pivot to baseball—a sport with no clear ties to his coaching résumé. Sources close to the Yankees suggest the organization is experimenting with cross-sport leadership to bring fresh perspectives into the clubhouse, especially amid their own struggles in the American League East.
For BYU fans, Mendenhall’s reappearance is a jolt from the past at a moment when the football program faces uncertainty. While Sitake remains committed to rebuilding and strengthening the team, outside pressures—including this unexpected message—are mounting.
Whether Mendenhall’s statement was a warning, a challenge, or just a philosophical musing, it has undeniably stirred conversation. As both the Yankees and BYU brace for upcoming seasons, the impact of Mendenhall’s move—and his message—may extend far beyond the sidelines or the dugout.
