Baseball Coach

Well, the World Cup is over and full credit to Spain. My heart was with the Dutch, having visited there and enjoying its culture and people. But Spain was the better side on the day and the best side during the tournament. Proof once again that defense wins championships. The Spanish did not allow a goal in the knock out rounds. So congrats to Spain and now with the World Cup complete, let’s return to Winthrop Athletics.

Who will be the next baseball coach? I have been asked that question at least 10 times this week and I have no idea. The two names that I hear the most around the water cooler are Scott Forbes (assistant coach at North Carolina) and Mike McGuire (Winthrop assistant). Both are well liked in the department, both have been Winthrop assistants, and both are ready to be head coaches.

I do not know the full list of applicants but these are the two names that I am hearing the most and to be honest I think both can have success at Winthrop. Personally, I would like to see Coach McGuire get the chance. He has proven his loyalty to Winthrop by returning after being a successful head coach at Lander. When Coach Hudak was suspended during the Big South Tournament, Coach McGuire had the team playing loose and well against VMI in a game they had to win and they did. He knows this program inside and out, is an effective recruiter, and would be a very good hire.

Obviously, it is the department’s responsibility to hire the best coach that is available and not just the first qualified person. So, it is good that Winthrop is going to take a hard look at all the candidates. Another name may emerge who is an even better candidate only time will tell. But don’t expect any to happen quickly. These things take time. I do not expect to hear anything before school starts in late August. But let me know your thoughts about who the next coach should be.