Bigger Than Baseball

In a game built on failure, pressure, and uncertainty, for the Coast’s newest arms, Jaxon Byrd and Garrett Van Deventer lean on something greater than velocity or mechanics. The mound can be one of the loneliest places in the sports world, but for Byrd and Van Deventer, they never truly stand alone. Behind every strikeout, comeback, and opportunity is a foundation built on family and faith. That perspective has not only guided their journey to professional baseball but has strengthened their mental resilience. That trust has become their greatest weapon on the mound, providing the confidence, peace, and resilience needed to compete when the game is on the line.

BYRD

One moment, Byrd was sitting at his grandfather’s house, sipping coffee and enjoying an omelet, finally able to relax after the chaos of finals week. For many college students, finals bring late-night studying, last-minute cramming, and endless doom scrolling. As a senior at UC Riverside, the two-way player was looking forward to enjoying a well-earned break and reflecting on the end of his collegiate career.

But the moment of peace didn’t last long.

Just as he caught his breath, Byrd received a text from his coach informing him that UC Riverside assistant coach and current Long Beach Coast manager Troy Percival would be reaching out to him soon. What began as an ordinary morning quickly became everything he had worked for coming to fruition. 

“I was surprised and wasn't expecting it,” said Byrd. “It was sudden, but it's been something I've been hoping and working for.” 

He finished the last sips of coffee and bites of his omelet and started packing. 

VAN DEVENTER

While pitching in the Pecos League in Trinidad, Colorado, Van Deventer received a phone call from a familiar voice, his former manager, Troy Percival. The two had worked together the previous season with the Idaho Falls Chukars, where Van Deventer's journey took an unexpected turn after being released.

“I definitely have had some ups and some downs,” said Van Deventer. “I just know that God's with me everywhere I go.”

This time, the call brought good news. Percival, now managing the Long Beach Coast, offered Van Deventer another opportunity to continue pursuing his professional baseball dream.

For Van Deventer, the opportunity felt like more than just a roster move; it felt like an answered prayer.

“Praise and thanks to the Lord for answering that prayer of wanting to come to California,” said Van Deventer.

BEYOND THE DIAMOND

The two players consistently express gratitude to their support systems, crediting them for what they have accomplished, because without their sacrifices and support, neither Byrd nor Van Deventer would be in the position they are today, chasing their professional baseball dreams with the opportunity to compete at the next level.

“I'm playing for something bigger than myself at the end of the day,” said Byrd. “My amazing support system, they're always having my back, no matter what.” 

For both Byrd and Van Deventer, faith is more than a part of their pregame routine; it serves as an anchor through the highs and lows that centers them.

“Everywhere I go, I'm representing everywhere I've been, all the people that I've met, all the coaches I've played for,” said Van Deventer.  “I carry that with me.”

That mindset is part of what keeps both pitchers grounded, as baseball is a game of failure. Even the best pitchers don't hit the strike zone every pitch, even with a perfect game. For Byrd and Van Deventer, faith allows them to keep those moments in perspective.

“Rooting your identity in the right thing, and as a believer in Christ, I have my identity in God,” said Byrd.

Along with their faith, family support has played a key role in shaping both pitchers. It has helped Byrd and Van Deventer navigate the challenges of baseball while giving them the confidence to pursue their professional dreams. Together, their faith and family have built a foundation that extends beyond the game, shaping how they approach life on and off the field and giving them purpose beyond scoreboard results.

MENTAL GAME

The mental side of pitching can be just as demanding as the physical work. Every outing comes with pressure, quick adjustments, and the constant reality that failure is part of the game.

“It's very mentally challenging,” said Byrd. “Having that mental resilience is really key for playing this game.” 

Learning to stay composed after mistakes, reset between pitches, and trust preparation takes a mental toll as the pitcher controls the tempo of the game. 

“Just being very attentive to detail, all of the extra time that needs to go into it,” said Van Deventer. 

In a game defined by failure, that mental edge becomes just as critical as velocity or mechanics, allowing both pitchers to slow the game down and trust their preparation.

“Being in control of each pitch, and just the mindset of knowing that when I go out there I'm going to do the best I can every single time, and never wavering in that,” said Van Deventer. 

The energy of the game, especially the support from fans, adds another layer to the experience. Whether at home or on the road, the presence of a crowd backing the Coast brings a different kind of motivation, turning pressure into energy and reminding players they are part of something bigger than themselves. 

“We love your support,” said Byrd. “We're gonna win as many games as possible, and hopefully, we can bring the championship for all you guys.”

WRITTEN BY: NINA CORRAL