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Willard baseball utilizes small ball strategy in state semifinal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 5:22 AM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Willard baseball utilizes small ball strategy in state semifinal

Summary

Willard's baseball team, led by head coach Scott McGee, is set to compete in the State Semifinal on June 1 during McGee's 19th and final season. The Tigers have relied on a small ball strategy, focusing on contact hitting and disruptive base running, rather than the power-hitting trend emphasized in modern baseball. This approach has contributed to impressive results since McGee took over in 2008, including 10 district championships and two state titles. To clinch a third state championship, Willard will need to overcome defending Class 5 champion Platte County.

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By the Numbers

•Willard plays in its 7th State Semifinal on June 1.
•McGee has led the team to 10 district championships since 2008.
•The Tigers' strategy focuses on getting on base and pressuring pitchers.
•They aim to upset defending champion Platte County to advance.

Latest Updates

5:22 AMYahoo Sports — Willard’s ‘small ball’ tactics a recipe for success

What they're saying

"
WILLARD–The Willard baseball program has been a winning machine, under Head Coach, Scott McGee. The Tigers will play in their 7th State Semifinal, in McGee’s 19th and final season, Friday night. The bulk of their success, offensively, has come from a method that is “outdated” by today’s standards — ‘small ball.’ Rather than adapt to […]
— Yahoo Sports

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