In a surprising turn of events, Bronco Mendenhall, the former head coach of Brigham Young University’s (BYU) football team, has reportedly joined the New York Yankees as a bench coach. This unexpected career shift has raised eyebrows across the sports world, especially given Mendenhall’s deep ties to college football. Adding to the intrigue, Mendenhall is said to have sent a cryptic message to BYU’s current head coach, Kalani Sitake, prompting widespread speculation about the nature and intent of the communication.
Mendenhall’s Transition from College Football to MLB
Bronco Mendenhall’s coaching journey has been marked by significant achievements in college football. After a successful tenure at BYU from 2005 to 2015, Mendenhall continued his coaching career at the University of Virginia and later at the University of New Mexico. In December 2024, he was appointed as the head coach at Utah State University .
However, the recent reports suggest a dramatic pivot in Mendenhall’s career path. The claim that he has taken on a role with the New York Yankees is both unexpected and unprecedented. As of now, there is no official confirmation from the Yankees organization regarding Mendenhall’s appointment. The lack of verifiable information raises questions about the accuracy of these reports and whether they might be the result of misinformation or satire.
The Alleged Message to Kalani Sitake
Adding to the mystery, sources indicate that Mendenhall has sent a cryptic message to Kalani Sitake, his successor at BYU. The content and context of this message remain unclear, leading to various interpretations and speculations. Some believe it could be a gesture of goodwill, while others wonder if it carries a deeper, more personal meaning.
Kalani Sitake has been the head coach at BYU since 2016 and has led the team through significant transitions, including the move from independent status to joining the Big 12 Conference in 2023 . Sitake’s leadership has been characterized by a strong emphasis on faith, unity, and resilience, qualities that have endeared him to players and fans alike.
Speculation and Public Reaction
The reported developments have sparked a wave of speculation among sports analysts, fans, and media outlets. The idea of a former college football coach transitioning to a major league baseball coaching role is unusual and has led to questions about Mendenhall’s motivations and future plans. Additionally, the alleged message to Sitake has fueled discussions about the relationship between the two coaches and what the communication might signify.
Given the absence of official statements from Mendenhall, Sitake, or the New York Yankees, the true nature of these events remains uncertain. Until more concrete information becomes available, the sports community can only speculate about the implications of Mendenhall’s reported career change and his message to Sitake.
Conclusion
While the notion of Bronco Mendenhall serving as a bench coach for the New York Yankees and sending a cryptic message to Kalani Sitake is intriguing, it is essential to approach these reports with caution. The lack of verified information calls into question the authenticity of these claims. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to rely on official announcements and credible sources to ascertain the facts surrounding these events. Until then, the sports world remains abuzz with curiosity and speculation.
