Executive Directors and Ambassadors
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Stephen Strasburg
Stephen Strasburg hails from San Diego, California, and is an Aztec for Life. A former #1 overall pick in the 2009 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals out of San Diego State University, Stephen is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in SDSU Baseball history. During his collegiate career, he set the NCAA single-game record with 23 strikeouts and capped off his time at Tony Gwynn Stadium by throwing a no-hitter in his final home start.
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At the professional level, Stephen's accomplishments include being a three-time MLB All-Star, a World Series Champion, and the MVP of the 2019 World Series. Following his retirement from professional baseball, Stephen established the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation in 2023 to reconnect former players and alumni with SDSU Baseball while helping position the program for success in the evolving era of NIL and collegiate athletics.
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Today, Stephen remains committed to supporting SDSU Baseball and helping future generations of Aztecs succeed both on and off the field through the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation.
Erik Castro
Erik Castro hails from San Diego, California, and attended Fallbrook High School before continuing his baseball career at San Diego State University. A former catcher and third baseman for the Aztecs, Erik formed one of the most successful pitcher-catcher duos in program history alongside Stephen Strasburg, helping SDSU achieve national prominence during their time on The Mesa.
Following his collegiate career, Erik was selected in the 10th round of the 2009 MLB Draft by the Houston Astros. Across more than a decade in professional baseball, he appeared in over 1,000 games while compiling a .267 batting average and hitting 64 home runs.
After retiring from professional baseball, Erik transitioned into player representation and has built a successful career as a sports agent. Now with VaynerSports, he represents many of baseball's rising stars and emerging talents, helping guide the next generation of Major League players both on and off the field. Through his work with the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation, Erik remains dedicated to strengthening the connection between SDSU Baseball's past, present, and future.
Brandon Ruddy
Brandon Ruddy was born and raised in Orange County, California, and attended El Modena High School before continuing his baseball career at San Diego State University. A former catcher for the Aztecs, Brandon's playing career was cut short due to injury, but he remained a respected leader among his teammates and an important contributor to the culture and camaraderie that helped define the program during his time on The Mesa.
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Following SDSU, Brandon built a successful career in the real estate industry. Prior to becoming a realtor with Bullock Russell Real Estate Services, he worked as a mortgage loan officer and has been involved in more than 300 real estate transactions throughout his career. His experience on both the lending and sales sides of the industry provides clients with a unique perspective and comprehensive understanding of the home buying and selling process.
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As a member of the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation, Brandon is passionate about giving back to the program that helped shape him and is committed to helping grow the Foundation's impact throughout the San Diego community.
Shari Brasher
Shari Brasher is the Chief Executive Officer of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to providing free reconstructive surgery and medical care to children with physical differences. With more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership and community engagement experience, Shari has built a reputation as one of San Diego's most respected philanthropic leaders, creating partnerships that have transformed the lives of thousands of children and families.
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Throughout her career, Shari has worked alongside community leaders, corporate partners, professional athletes, Hollywood stars, and charitable organizations to raise awareness and support meaningful causes. Her expertise in fundraising, donor relations, and community outreach has helped drive the success of numerous initiatives throughout San Diego and beyond. Under her leadership, Fresh Start has expanded its hospital and medical partnerships across the United States, increasing access to life-changing care for children in need.
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As a member of the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation, Shari aims to strengthen community engagement, grow the Foundation's impact, and support the continued success of the Strasburg Classic and other Foundation initiatives. Her leadership and experience will be invaluable in bringing together the San Diego faithful in support of the future of Aztec Baseball.
Miles Leyva
Miles Leyva is a San Diego State University graduate and sports marketing professional with experience spanning athlete representation, event management, fundraising, sponsorship sales, and nonprofit development. Throughout his career, Miles has worked with professional athletes, sports agencies, and charitable foundations to create impactful events and partnerships that drive meaningful community engagement.
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Currently, Miles works with Swidzinski Sports Management and serves as Director of Baseball Events and Fundraising for the Aztec Baseball Alumni Foundation, where he helps lead fundraising initiatives, alumni engagement efforts, and special events that support the future of SDSU Baseball. He has played an integral role in the development of the Strasburg Classic, Dinner on the Diamond, and other programs designed to strengthen the connection between former players, supporters, and the San Diego community.
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A lifelong supporter of Aztec Athletics, Miles is passionate about leveraging sports as a platform to bring people together, creating opportunities for student-athletes, and ensuring continued success for future generations of SDSU Baseball.