Get to Know: Coach Taylor Whitenton
We have a roster of outstanding coaches at Pinecrest Academy, and we'd like to introduce you to some of them via a new column in the Paladin Press. This week, get to know Coach Taylor Whitenton.
What sport do you coach at Pinecrest and how long have you been coaching this sport?
I am the Head Varsity Baseball Coach here at Pinecrest. This is my fourth year.
Tell us about your background in this particular sport.
I played high school baseball at Heritage High School in Conyers, GA. After my senior year at Heritage, I was drafted by the Atlanta Braves (Short-Stop) but decided not to sign. I played college baseball at Albany State and was drafted by the New York Mets (Right-Handed Pitcher) following my sophomore year. I played in the New York Mets Organization (Minor Leagues) from 2009 to 2014. I experienced a shoulder injury in 2012, and after two surgeries was not able to return.
What are some career highlights during your time as an athlete and/or coach?
AAAA Georgia High School State Championship
2x Rawlings High School All-American
#1 Ranked RHP in GA, #34 in the U.S. (2007) according to Perfect Game
MLB Draft: Atlanta Braves SS 2007
MLB Draft: New York Mets RHP 2009
2011 MILB South Atlantic League: All-Star Game Starting Pitcher
2011 MILB South Atlantic League: Lowest Earned Run Average Award
2011 MLB Arizona Fall League Participant
2011 MLB Arizona Fall League: Rising Stars All-Star Game Participant
2012 New York Mets Minor League Pitcher of the Month Award
TOPPS MLB - 1st Year Player Rookie Card
MLB New York Mets Top 50 Prospect in 2011, 2012, & 2013
How do you inspire the mission of Pinecrest Academy in your players?
I point them to Jesus.
During the season, we spend time in daily prayer. On game days, our team reads a Christian devotion from our devotional book, Playing with Purpose. The book provides an historical baseball story and then connects it to a specific Bible scripture and lesson.
As your student-athletes continue along in their sport, what is the primary lesson you hope they’ll leave Pinecrest with, as it relates to being one of your players?
Hopefully, what they take away from having me as their coach is that they are loved, supported, and driven to be their best. I am blessed to share the gospel through education and baseball. My goal as a teacher and coach is to lead in a way that honors Christ, and hopefully, to encourage my students and players to trust in Him as much as I do.
Are there any coaches or fellow teammates who inspired you as an athlete yourself?
I was blessed with a terrific duo.
My father was my greatest coach, mentor, pastor, leader, and model for Christ. He encouraged me to set high goals for myself and to not allow small setbacks or disappointments deter me from striving for and achieving my goals.
My mother is my “biggest fan,” as she would say. Her support and encouragement helped me believe that my goals were not unrealistic. When people often questioned my goals, my mother reminded me to ignore them and stay focused.
When you’re not coaching or teaching, what do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my wife Megan and our three children, Maya, Gabe, and Grace. I also enjoy playing golf, snowboarding, and watching theological debates.
Is there anything people would be surprised to know about you?
I am introverted, but Christ is trying his best to make me an extrovert.
