Niko Gallego, a former standout shortstop for UCLA and veteran of professional baseball, completed his 11th season on the Bruins’ coaching staff in 2024. Promoted to a full-time assistant coach position in 2021 after seven years as a volunteer assistant, Gallego has played a key role in shaping UCLA’s consistent success on both sides of the ball. He serves as the Bruins’ infield coach and assists with hitting and recruiting coordination, contributing to multiple nationally ranked recruiting classes, including Baseball America’s No. 1-ranked groups in 2021 and 2023. His work with UCLA’s defense and infield development has been a cornerstone of the program’s identity, as the Bruins have routinely ranked among the nation’s top teams in fielding percentage.
A product of Yorba Linda, California, Gallego starred for the Bruins from 2008–2010, helping lead UCLA to two NCAA Regionals and a College World Series berth before being selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 27th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. He went on to play four professional seasons before returning to Westwood to coach. His impact has been evident during UCLA’s resurgence as a national contender, highlighted by the 2025 squad’s 48-win campaign, Big Ten regular-season co-championship, and College World Series berth. Under his guidance, UCLA infielders Roch Cholowsky and Mulivai Levu earned ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove awards, a first for two Bruins in the same season. Known for his defensive instruction, player development, and recruiting acumen, Gallego continues to help sustain UCLA baseball’s national prominence under head coach John Savage.
