Testimonial Tuesday: Zach Lewis

  Putting oneself around the right type of people can often bring positive results.  That’s what right-handed pitcher Zach Lewis must have been thinking when he joined the Dirtbags in the fall of 2018. The uncommitted 2021 out of West Forsyth said he made the decision with the purpose of gaining exposure to college programs.  

The rising junior who bats and throws righty, and additionally plays third base, pointed out that a major factor was knowing how hard the Dirtbags staff works to get players seen and reach out to colleges.

He joined the Dirtbags in the fall of 2018 and it’s a decision that seems to be paying off.  He noted that the recruiting process is going well and really came on all at once last couple of weeks following a solid showing at a Dirtbag event at the beginning of the summer season.

Certainly not surprised by these developments is Brent Haynes – head of player development for the Dirtbags and also coaches Lewis on the 16u Bad Company team.

Haynes sees why the opportunities are taking shape.  He commented, “Lewis is a guy who has really put in the work in the weightroom to transform his body. It has really started to show on the field as he continues to make jumps on the mound.”

For Zach, who is interested in a number of top programs  and programs on the rise in the region, any decision will center on the college’s staff and facilities as major factors.

On top of the collegiate connection piece, Lewis has also seen his game improve.  The righty has experienced the benefits of being coached by former college pitchers (in Haynes and Bad Company assistant Dallas Newton).  Zach recognizes he has better learned to manage situations. The growth has come from knowing how to match which pitches and locations to use, as he faces different types of hitters in particular counts.

Lewis describes himself as a power pitcher who tries to throw it as hard has he can each time he gets the ball.  With a fastball that usually sits 86-87 and can bump 89-90, in addition to a slider which is at 75-78 right now, the 6’1” and 190 pounder personifies the image of a “go right at ‘em” guy.

Haynes agrees, “Zach has a quick arm with some really good stuff on the mound.  He comes at guys with a bulldog mentality.”

Eager to get into the summer schedule following a spring where his Titans made an early play-off exit after winning their conference tournament, Lewis has reason to believe he and his Dirtbag teammates can make a deep run in the WWBA come July.  He called attention to the notion of playing with such a group only brings out the best in him.

“It’s always good to surround yourself with the best players to push yourself,” he said.

In addition to the talent surrounding him, Lewis also called attention to the Dirtbag coaching by saying, “Coaches always help you out with instruction and timely lessons.”

So whether it’s on the bump dominating opposing hitters or as in recalling a memorable six hour rain delay where he and the other Bags were just goofing around, Lewis knows he is in a good position by being with what he calls the “hardest working players in the game, who compete no matter what.”

Sounds like both he and his teammates are in good company to reach their goals.