UC Davis has promoted associate head coach Matt Vaughn to head coach, replacing Rex Peters, who left for a job on the UCLA coaching staff after nine seaons at the helm of the Aggies' program. Vaughn, a UC Davis pitcher from 1989-92, has spent the last 19 years on the Aggies coaching staff under former head coach Phil Swimley and Peters.

Vaughn helped Peters lead the Aggies from Division II to D-I, where they reached a regional in their first year of eligibility in 2008.

"It's not easy to leave UC Davis," Peters said in a release. "I've seen this program grow tremendously and I'm very proud of everything we've accomplished. The program is in good hands and I know Matt will continue to build a competitive Big West baseball program. He's ready and it will be a smooth transition for both current and future Aggies."

Vaughn, who was elevated to associate head coach in 2007, has coached 15 pitchers who went on to sign professional contracts during his time as Davis' pitching coach.

"I'm very excited," Vaughn said in the release. "I can help this program be successful and I'm excited to have the position. I've been at UC Davis my whole career, and one of the reasons for that is the outstanding student-athletes we are able to attract here. I've had the opportunity for 24 years to work with incredible people and I look forward to doing more of that."