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Cochran-Gill

Cochran-Gill gives back

By Michael Butler

Trey Cochran-Gill just turned 26. The former Tallassee Tiger enters his sixth year in the minor leagues this spring.

Cochran-Gill is a pitcher with the Oakland A's organization and reports for spring training at Mesa, Ariz. in March. Right now he's helping young players in his hometown.

He just partnered with the Tallassee Dixie Youth Baseball League in conducting camps for young players.

"It's definitely fun to get back," he said.

Cochran-Gill with youngsters who attended his camp recently at the Tallassee Dixie Youth Baseball Complex

After last baseball season, Cochran-Gill spent some Friday nights watching his younger brother Trent on the football a field, where he himself played the other game he loves.

"I really miss playing on Friday nights," he said. "I can't say I miss those practices a whole lot. They were brutal in that heat. Time flies. It seems like I was just in high school."

Coaching up the next generation

After his time at THS, Cochran-Gill played college baseball at Auburn before entering the professional ranks.

"It was a good experience. I learned a lot. It was nice being close to home. Then I got drafted by Seattle. I played a year and a half with those guys. I got traded to the A's (and) have been with them since 2016."

He has pitched against and played with some of the top players in Major Leage Baseball.

"It's good to face that competition. Mark Trumbo, a big homerun guy, actually hit one out on me. I struck out Chris Davis.

"When I was with Seattle, I got called in to back up a game. 'Get Cochran-Gill out.' I'm like, 'Did he say my name?' I was kind of nervous but after I threw the first pitch I was fine. The first ball is a ground ball to second base. I turn around and (Robinson) Cano scoops the ball up and makes a nice little throw to first. That's pretty cool right there."

Cochran-Gill at spring training outside of Salt River Stadium in Scottsdale, Ariz. last year with Tallassee visitors (left to right): Johnny Mitchell, Bob Clayton, Tom Crain and Chuck Stewart. 

Cochran-Gill gives some advice to pitchers.

"You've got to take care of your arm because if that goes out on you, you're not going to be pitching. You're going to have to be a very good hitter if you're playing baseball. Work on fast balls and changeups. Leave the breaking ball alone until you get a little older. If you can get the reps in with your changeup now, once you get to middle school or high school it's a really good pitch for you.

"Get out there. Play toss. Play catch. Lock in instead of lollygagging. I know at that age it's tough. I tell the guys that even when you're throwing with a partner, there are things you can work on. Have a plan and focus on it."

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