Kansas Lessons

Chad Abernathy - Hitting

Phone: 816-522-4907

Coach Abz” brings over 20 years of experience developing confident hitters throughout the US and internationally. Having coached more than 150 athletes to college scholarships and 6 draft picks, he blends biomechanics and technology with positive coaching to create a fun, challenging, training environment.

Availability:

KS - Monday & Wednesday (4-8:00PM)

Age groups: High School, Youth 10-14

Garrett McGowan - Hitting & Pitching

Phone: 816.223.9777

Garrett McGowan was drafted in the 17th round of the 2022 MLB Draft by the Houston Astros. A standout first baseman, Garrett earned national recognition during his collegiate career at Pittsburg State University, where he was named an NCAA Division II First Team All-American and received the prestigious Rawlings Gold Glove Award in 2022. Prior to Pittsburg State, he played at Dodge City Community College, where he hit 25 career home runs—second-most in school history—and won the Region VI Gold Glove Award at first base. Garrett, a YBC Alumni offers elite baseball instruction focused on hitting mechanics, defensive excellence, and college recruiting guidance. He trains youth and aspiring athletes with the same discipline and passion that propelled him to the professional level.

Availability:

KS - Monday-Thursday (5-9pm)

Age groups: High School, Youth 8-14

Nick Patten - Catching & Hitting

Phone: 816.258.0354

Nick Patten is a current collegiate athlete and accomplished catcher ready to provide specialized catching and hitting instruction for the next generation of baseball players. A recent 2024 graduate and current Baker University player (Catcher/1B/RP), Nicholas brings fresh, high-level experience, having served as the Varsity Catcher for two years at Blue Springs South and being a long-time Alumnus of the YBC Baseball program (2020-2024). With additional coaching experience as the YBC 15U Kansas Assistant Coach, Nick focuses on modern mechanics, game IQ, and the competitive mentality required to excel at the high school and collegiate levels.

Availability:

KS - Wednesday (7-9:30pm)

Age groups: High School, Youth 8-14

Caden Pogue - Pitching

Phone: 405.385.4881

Caden Pogue, YBC Alumnus and former collegiate pitcher with experience at both Hutchinson Community College (JUCO) and Baker University (NAIA), where he currently serves as the assistant pitching coach for the baseball program. Known for his competitive edge and leadership on and off the field, Caden earned Heart of America All-Conference honors in back-to-back seasons—Honorable Mention in 2023 and 2nd Team in 2024. He now uses his playing and coaching experience to offer pitching lessons to younger athletes, emphasizing growth, discipline, and the mindset required to succeed at all levels. His journey reflects a deep commitment to mentorship and excellence in every phase of the game.

Availability:

KS - Wednesday (5-9:00pm)

Age groups: High School, Youth 8-14

Stefon Griddine - Catching / Hitting Instructor

Phone: 816.316.9395

Stefon Griddine is a performance-driven baseball coach who builds elite athletes from the ground up. His hitting program emphasizes proper fundamentals, strength, direction, bat speed, and rotational power—each session tracked with HitTrax to measure progress in Exit Velocity and Launch Angle consistency. On the defensive side, his catching philosophy is rooted in M.P.A.—Mentality, Physicality, and Attitude—developing athletes who excel in receiving, blocking, transfer mechanics, and sequencing. With a proven track record at Harris-Stowe State University and recognition in the Grandview High School Athletics Hall of Fame, Coach Griddine equips players with the skills and mindset to thrive at the high school and collegiate levels. For training inquiries, contact 816.316.9395 and start your journey toward elite performance.

Availability: Contact directly for availability

Age groups: High School, Youth 10-14 

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