University of St. Thomas Athletics
Staff Directory
- Title:
- Volunteer Director of Program Development
Career: Joe was a professional baseball coach with more than three decades of experience developing hitters and helping shape major league careers. Vavra spent 12 seasons on the Minnesota Twins’ major league staff (2006–2017), serving as hitting coach, third-base coach, and bench coach, before joining the Detroit Tigers as quality control coach and later hitting coach (2018-2020). Vavra played professionally after being drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1982 and reached Triple-A before injuries ended his playing career. He began coaching in the Dodgers’ farm system in 1987 and later joined the Twins’ organization in 2002, where he became known for his expertise in hitting, base running, and player development.
During his time as the Twins’ hitting coach, Vavra worked closely with All-Star and Hall of Fame-caliber talent such as Joe Mauer — who won multiple batting titles and an American League MVP — and MVP winner Justin Morneau, along with notable major leaguers like Michael Cuddyer, Torii Hunter, and Jason Kubel.
Joe continues to be respected for his deep knowledge of the game and ability to connect with players at all levels.
