The Ash Grove Pirates begin this season with their third new coach in three years. Troy McMain has plans for the program, and he plans to stick around.
“When I came in, of course, they were a little skeptical of me—three head coaches in the past three years,” said McMain. “Communication is a big part of that. We’re working hard and doing good. We’re building back to the 1980s and ‘90s when the Ash Grove program was really strong. Alumni have jumped on board and are excited.”
The Pirates lost to El Dorado Springs in district playoffs last season (5-0), finishing 8-13 for the season.
McMain plans to return Brett Rose to the mound. Rose was the Pirates’ top pitcher last year, with a 1.65 ERA. He earned second team all-conference as pitcher.
“This is Brett’s second year pitching varsity,” said McMain. “He has really good control and good mechanics. He can throw a lot of different pitches and is a nice asset to have on the mound.”
Six seniors will return to varsity, including Rose, Jackson Bagley, Garrett Payne, Taylor Whitworth, and Conner Reed. Bagley, Payne, and Whitworth will add depth on the mound.
Payne averaged .476 at the plate last year and was selected first team all-conference. Bagley earned second team all-conference. McMain expects Payne, Rose, and Bagley to be top hitters this season.
“Garrett led last year with the highest batting average, but from what I’ve seen out of Brett and Jackson, they also have good techniques and hitting mechanics,” said McMain.
McMain is offering a leadership class for juniors and seniors on Wednesday mornings.
“All the seniors are in it,” said McMain. “It has made a night and day difference in leadership from last year. It’s done a lot to build chemistry on the team.”
Juniors Paul Brugh and Mason Keith also join the varsity team. Keith plays 1st base and outfield and sometimes pitches.
Although this is McMain’s first position as a head coach, he brings experience as an assistant coach and as a local player. McMain played for the Willard Tigers and holds school records for runs, homers, and RBI’s in 2000.
“It’s been a new experience,” said McMain. “It’s taken a little time to get used to each other and get to know each other. They’re committing to what I’m trying to do. We have a good open line of communication between us and good support. This year I’m trying to use the talent the seniors have to add some team chemistry and leadership so they can really hone their skills to move forward. They’ve done a good job doing what needs to be done.”
The Pirates will host Morrisville on March 21.
