Part II of our focus on Coaching Changes in the Valley Isle focuses on changes to the Maui Mahi-Mahi Pitching coach position within the Scottish Claymores organization.

Former PEBA SP Neil Maes will be stepping in as Pitching Coach for Maui and it will also be his first season transitioning from retired player to coach.

“Neil always has been a leader at multiple stops throughout his career. He’s someone we’ve been eyeing over the past few years, and reached out this offseason to see where he was at. We knew he had been wanting to enjoy time with his family after his long tenure in the PEBA, but this was an opportunity he felt was right. He’s always been a fierce competitor, and we hope he can bring that dynamic toward helping our young pitching develop. We think the sky is the limit with Neil’s teaching ability and look forward to him being with us for a long time.” – GM Sean Bain

Maes ferocity on the mound has some across the league wondering if his personality will conflict with new Manager German Hernandez in the clubhouse.

“Look, we both aren’t going to change what got us here. That being said, I would’ve loved to have German behind the plate when I was on the mound. Probably would’ve won a few more games in my career. We’re both here trying to get the best out of these guys, and I don’t expect personalities to be an issue.” – Maui Pitching Coach Neil Maes

Some analysts around the PEBA have questioned the Claymores lack of depth pitching prospect wise in the lower minor leagues, but Maes was quick to address those comments.

“My job is to get the best out of the players we do have, and I think our focus of weak contact, getting ground balls, and letting the defense make plays behind you will benefit our entire team. Keep the team in the game, keep it moving. Strikeouts are great, but if you’ve got a good defense behind you then use them too.”

Perhaps Maes can tap into some unseen potential and help the Claymores young prospects flourish into future PEBA pitchers. The clock is ticking…