STARKVILLE — First-year Starkville High School baseball head coach Mark Monaghan came into the program with a general understanding of what to expect from the Yellow Jackets in the immediate future.
Now, he has two future college baseball commits to help lead the way.
Recently, seniors Kieran Coleman and Otto Hyche both verbally committed to Northeast Mississippi Community College for baseball, an exciting new chapter for both that Monaghan is happy to be a part of.
“It’s a unique situation coming into a program not really being part of their development up until this part,” Monaghan said. “When we first met, I wanted them to know that we were here for them as coaches to support them and offer them any guidance…It was evident that they were very mature, very good communicators.”
Coleman got his opportunities on the varsity team over the past two seasons, and took full advantage.
His junior season has been the most consistent to date, hitting for power and average, playing great defense in the outfield, and performing when asked to pitch.
“I’m blessed to be able to announce that I will be continuing my athletic and academic career at Northeast Community College” Coleman said in his commitment announcement on social media. “I would like to thank God, my family, teammates, and coaches for helping me get to this point.”
Hyche has been a consistent starter for the Jackets during his career on the mound, and is one of the best strikeout pitchers in the region, fanning 50 batters in 32.2 innings last season, averaging nearly 5.6 strikeouts per nine innings.
He’s expected to be the No. 1 starter for Starkville for the 2024 season, and having him back to lead the rotation is a massive boost, especially with a new coaching staff coming in.
“Ever since I was a kid I have always wanted to play baseball at the next level,” Hyche said during his commitment announcement on social media. “Today that came true. I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point.”
Monaghan, Starkville’s new head coach, said he is beyond excited to work with both Coleman and Hyche throughout the fall and into the spring.
“I couldn’t be more happy for them, proud of them and excited for them to be two leaders for our program heading into next season,” Monaghan said.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 30 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 30 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
Join the Discussion