Gainesville's Michael Gettys has been rock-solid from his first day at Gainesville. Expect to hear the senior's name mentioned among the best players in the nation come MLB Draft time.
Photo by Alyson Boyer Rode
Some players begin so raw that coaches have their jobs cut out for them. Known as "project players," they take some time to teach.
Gettys has helped lead the Red Elephants to a 10-4record so far this season.
Photo by Dennis Carter
was never that kind of player.
"He's been special since the day we got him," said
Gainesville (Ga.) coach Jeremy Kemp before Gainesville's game against Orange Lutheran in the National High School Invitational last Friday. "He hit a home run in his first at-bat, the first pitch he saw."
The two-way athlete (outfield and pitcher) will graduate this year and is high on the draft boards heading into June for the MLB Draft. It's not surprising, that home run, since the word "Power" is often attached to the righthander's abilities, both on the mound and in the outfield.
The Gainesville native's extraordinary tools receive much praise and attention, but he has not always been so self-assured.
"Improving my confidence has been the biggest thing," Gettys said. "It's a humbling game. I started off good this year, but the past three games I haven't hit well. It's about keeping your confidence and trust. Hitting comes and goes."
With a tough but teachable mentality like that, Kemp is grateful.
"It's for sure contagious and makes our job easy. He leads by example," he said.
Gettys is focused on his current teammates and thetask at hand - not the MLB Draft.
Photo by Dennis Carter
Gettys got the ball for Gainesville's game against Venice (Fla.) after a decision that was made the morning of the NHSI opener. He went on to pitch a complete game to earn the win, striking out four in the effort.
It's his ability as a hitter and fielder - note his speed as well - that could see him drafted in the first round. He's considered the top outfield prospect in this year's draft. Gettys' versatility is something that's a strength as that day approaches, but also for his personal approach every game.
"Whether I'm hitting or not, even if I get a walk, I'm going to try and steal. I want to score the run. I'm going to show something off, no matter what," he said.
In Kemp's years working with Gettys, he hasn't seen much to dislike. The growth process seemed to be fairly easy, according to him.
"As far as a weakness, I can't say there is one, no. But he has adjusted at the plate better," he said.
Gettys was quick to point out that what happens in June isn't his main concern, and finishing the season with his teammates is. But where this is all headed seems very clear. Not just based on scouting reports, but by the person that's been there each stage of his high school development.
"He is tremendously gifted," Kemp said.
