Chad McKinney pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates organization
Opening Day.
It’s two words in which need no explanation. Whether it’s the sign of warmer weather, a fanbase full of hope, or withdrawals from the thrill of a 3-2 game, bottom of the 9th, bases loaded, and a 3-2 count, Opening Day seems to bring out the kid in all of us. For the first time in 50 years, Major League Baseball will have 30 clubs playing on the same day, and March 29th will mark the earliest Opening Day in history.
Watching Opening Day is one thing, playing is another. Currently, Brett McKinney, TJ Nichting, and Patrick McGuff are active Hamiltonians chasing their dream. However, the road to the big leagues isn’t for the faint of heart. Brett McKinney, current pitcher in the Pittsburgh Pirates system, knows best. McKinney has climbed his way to AAA, but after 6 minor league seasons, appreciates the grind. “Up until AAA, It was one bus with forty guys, and we were thrilled if a Waffle House was by our hotel because we could eat for 2-3 dollars… but if I didn’t think I could make the big leagues, I wouldn’t do this,” said McKinney.
Riding a bus is the vehicle to get to the big leagues, but the route is always different. Outside of “Cincinnati” & “Dayton”, Hamilton has produced the most Major League Baseball players in Southwest Ohio. As you flip through the Little League World Series record books, it wouldn’t take long to realize “Hamilton West Side Little League” may be a popular route in Hamilton.
“I love West Side Little League, and I’m a big supporter of playing Little League… it’s one of the most fun times I’ve had playing,” says McGuff,
Patrick McGuff pitching for the Minnesota Twins organization
a graduate of Hamilton High, and current prospect in the Minnesota Twins farm system. Current Baltimore Orioles farm hand, TJ Nichting grew up, and had quite the career at West Side. Under the tutelage of his father Tim Nichting in 2007, TJ and company was able to make the trip to Williamsport. “I remember being stuck in the dog pile, and it being the ultimate joy, and not even realizing what you accomplished with your friends,” Nichting reflects.
The system continues on to two incredible high school programs. While many communities are fortunate to have a single state championship run, Hamilton has had many. The two storied programs in the Badin Rams & Hamilton Big Blue have combined to appear in 17 State Tournaments. McKinney and Nichting were apart of a few Badin Rams state appearances, and both went on to play Division I baseball. McKinney played at Ohio State, while Nichting found his way to the University of North Carolina Charlotte.
Patrick McGuff was a standout for the Big Blue, but seemed to fall under the radar. Without any Division I offers, McGuff spent a couple years playing junior college baseball before finding his way to Morehead State. Upon graduating, McGuff was drafted in the 36th round, and he’s looking to prove a point.
“I hope everyone understands there’s really no one way to get, and no one way is right.. and kids that aren’t getting the offers they want to not put their heads down about it,” McGuff states. Although all three Hamiltonians may be riding the bus, all three have their unique route. Regardless of their final stop, they’re all enjoying the ride.
