Wingspan: When did you start baseball?

McGarrh: “I started playing competitive baseball at the age of 5, but I have been playing backyard baseball since I could walk.”

Wingspan: Who encouraged you to start baseball?

McGarrh: “My dad was a big influence on me starting to play baseball. I’ve always looked up to my dad so when I was a little kid I wanted to be just like him. He was a baseball coach, so he really influenced me to start playing.”

Wingspan: What is the hardest part about baseball?

McGarrh: “The hardest part about baseball would have to be controlling your emotions. Baseball is a mental and physical sport. Hitting a baseball is extremely hard and then you add the pressure of trying to perform well. Your emotions can get the best of you sometimes, so really controlling that aspect can be difficult at times.”

Wingspan: What’s your favorite part about baseball?

McGarrh: “My favorite thing about baseball is that it’s a team sport. You go out in between the lines and you’re playing for something bigger than yourself. You’re playing for those other guys on the field and in the dugout. The team bonding and that aspect really makes baseball enjoyable.”

Wingspan: Who is your biggest role model?

McGarrh: “My biggest role model is my dad. He really shows me the right way to carry myself. Not only on the field but off the field as well. He has taught me how to be a respectful young man and on the field he has taught me everything that I know. I look up to my dad for all he’s done.”

Wingspan: What is one thing people think about baseball that isn’t actually true?

McGarrh: “I think some people think baseball is slow and boring. I’m not saying that their opinion is wrong but it’s something about the thrill of playing with your team to all accomplish the same goal that makes it the best. You don’t have to wait a week to play your next game, only a few days.”  

Wingspan: Do you have any superstitions?

McGarrh: “I have a few superstitions. Every at-bat I draw a cross in the dirt and take a deep breath. Also, while I’m in the on deck circle, I always give my mom a high five. She supports me the most and is always at every game so showing a little gesture always seems to go a long way to her.” 

Wingspan: Do you have a pre game routine?

McGarrh: “On a gameday I always get up earlier than normal. It’s something about the excitement that wakes me up. I always eat a big breakfast because I don’t like eating a lot before I play. I always get ready and taped up before I head up to the school. Pre-game music is a big part of my routine because it helps clear my mind to focus on the goal. Lastly, 

I go over scouting reports. Our coaches put together a very detailed report and I always read over that a few times before taking the field.”

Wingspan: What or who motivates you?

McGarrh: “My motivation really comes from my mom. She has given and spent so much time with me at the field. She’s the reason I try to work so hard. One day I hope to give back to her for all that she has done for me. From little league to committing to play baseball at Texas Tech she has always been there every step of the way.” 

Wingspan: Why do you like baseball?

McGarrh: “I like baseball so much because it’s not only a physical sport but a mental one as well. Picking up on little gestures the pitcher gives off or studying the game. Baseball makes me feel like a little kid. It’s a kids game so every time I step in between those lines, you gotta think on how you’re playing a kids game, just have fun.”