Gunner Leger Back on Board

[Cajunchuck]

Well this is certainly good news! Happy to have Gunner a part of the baseball program again.

[Turbine]

"Leger Le Bon Temps Rouler"

[CajunT]

Really excited about this hire but let’s try to be realistic.

Pros - Thoroughly knows and buys into the Tony Robichaux pitching model. Bleeds Vermilion and will give everything to this program, just like he did in his playing career. Embodies the cULture.

Cons - No D1 coaching experience. This could have an impact with existing players and recruiting. Recruiting will be vital for GL. Not only does he need to evaluate well, but then sell players on coming. Lastly, being young, how will he ‘stand his ground’ with Coach Deggs. I know CMD has huge respect for GL, but could still look to bulldoze him on occasion.

Overall, I think this is a solid double as a hire, with grand slam upside. I think some patience will be needed as he grows into the role, but expect him to be very productive from Day 1.

If you pitched in college and in the minors, what experience do you need? He's not writing out a lineup card or moving players around defensively. Working with pitchers on release point, footwork and approach is something well within his realm and experience. JMO

[RaginDave]

If you pitched in college and in the minors, what experience do you need? He's not writing out a lineup card or moving players around defensively. Working with pitchers on release point, footwork and approach is something well within his realm and experience. JMO

We have a former All-American pitcher on the staff, that bleeds vermillion and white. I am not sure where anything negative could come from this. But then again, this is raginpagin, if someone can find negativity in positivity this would be the place.

[CajunRage]

But then again, this is raginpagin, if someone can find negativity in positivity this would be the place.

Guy gave an honest assessment and didn't bash one bit. All valid concerns. I guarantee you every MLB player is not coaching material.

[Dad04]

We have a former All-American pitcher on the staff, that bleeds vermillion and white. I am not sure where anything negative could come from this. But then again, this is raginpagin, if someone can find negativity in positivity this would be the place.

Exactly. He walks in the door with a legendary career, getting it done. He will have instant credibility in the bullpen. Everybody who has pitched one inning knows confidence is key. He has it and will pass it out every day. Only good things happen when you can add a certified wizard to the coaching staff.

This move was a surprise when I heard about it. Just one more win for the RP Committee.

[CajunVic]

Did someone say committee . . .

[Cajunrunner]

Guy gave an honest assessment and didn't bash one bit. All valid concerns. I guarantee you every MLB player is not coaching material.

Agree.

However, we have to be honest with ourselves. We're not an SEC, Big 12 or ACC baseball program. We are going to need to take some "risks" from time to time to hope to hit big. Hell, we did it in football with Napier. He came out of left field...well...for those of us not "in the know". It worked.

Leger knows how to succeed on the mound as a player. He was one of the best in the entire country during his time here. I think it's a well-taken risk to see if that experience can overcome any lack of experience in the coaching ring.

[Dad04]

Looking back in five years this will be widely viewed as a genius hire.

[Turbine]

Looking back in five years this will be widely viewed as a genius hire.

I think you are correct.

[CajunVic]

Looking back in five years this will be widely viewed as a genius hire.

Great prognostication . . . any word on whether he plans to use the committee . . .

[Dad04]

Great prognostication . . . any word on whether he plans to use the committee . . .

I sorta doubt he is a strong committee guy.