Schag Loves The Chemistry, Culture At Walsh

Grant Schag 3B / SS / Triway, OH / 2025

WOOSTER - An innocent conversation between strangers proved to be impactful in the recruiting process of Grant Schag.

“I was playing for Release at Kent State, and going to be a freshman that summer playing with 18U commits,” the Triway incoming senior explained. “My dad was there watching and started talking to Brody Ware from Kent. A couple months later when we were at Kent my dad asked him to eat breakfast. My dad posted how great of a kid he is and, as it turned out, he's the son of the Walsh coach.”

A connection was soon made with Darren Ware, an assistant coach at the Division II university in North Canton.

“He came to watch me at a high school game and invited me on a visit,” Schag reflected. “It was a great visit. I met with all the coaches and toured the campus. It was absolutely beautiful and the field was gorgeous.”

An offer was made and the ninth-ranked 2025 third baseman in Ohio then made a commitment to the Great Midwest Athletic Conference university located a little less than an hour from home.

“I was fortunate enough to have a lot of interest from D-I and D-II schools, but with Walsh I absolutely loved the coaches, the field, the campus … and their cafeteria is top notch,” Schag said. “I also know a lot of the kids there.”

Walsh saw Schag as a perfect fit for a program that has produced more than 900 wins in the 40-year career of head coach Tim Mead.

“Everything I represent about myself,” Schag pointed to in reference to what the Walsh coaches liked about him. “I give 100 percent all the time. I work at it. My character. My grades in school. How I conduct myself. How I dive for the baseball on the field and how I battle at the plate.”

While many high school athletes have the goal of going D-I, that wasn’t the case for the 122nd-ranked 2025 in Ohio.

“To be honest, I just liked Walsh more than the others,” Schag explained. “The culture is great and they have a great program. I know kids there and they love the chemistry. I went in the fall to see them play and it seemed like the chemistry was better than others. They’re diving after balls in BP. That’s the place I want to be.”

It is just part of what the 5-11 190-pounder believes he can provide the program.

“I’ll bring them leadership in the classroom and on the field,” Schag said. “Also, a little toughness and work ethic, not only on the field but in the weight room. I’ll continue to work hard and after that work harder.”

That type of attitude was on display for coaches to see during a recruiting process that was fun to be part of according to Schag.

“I really enjoyed my recruiting experience,” the son of Jason and Mandi Schag said. “There were many D-I and D-II schools interested and I was fortunate enough to be on their list. It was a fun time. I had a great relationship with every coach. It wasn’t stressful for me at all. I love baseball and I love the process.

“PBR did a lot for me,” Schag added. “I enjoyed going to the top events like the Future 50 and Junior Future Games. That set me off and my name started to get out there. I had a great relationship with coach (Jordan) Chiero (the former Ohio Scouting Director for Prep Baseball). He was there for me and really helped me with the process. I thank him and PBR for helping get my name out there.”

Improvement was also beneficial in getting interest from colleges.

“I really worked on improving my infield,” Schag said. “I’m more fluid at shortstop, third and second base. I’m smoother with my hands. At the plate I’ve become a better hitter, doing a good job putting the barrel to the ball consistently. If you hit it hard, whatever happens after that happens.”

There have been a number of influences for Schag in his baseball journey to Walsh.

“First off, the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Schag said. “I thank him for the ability to play the game and be in this spot. Thanks to my dad and mom for spending countless hours with me. And the coaches that have been with me … coach (Jake) Eye with the Bombers and all the others, coach Chris Clark with Release, coach Larry Geddes, coach Justin McDowell, coach Josh Garrison and coach Reid Geibel. Also thanks to all of my teammates.”

The feeling of making a commitment was a memorable one.

“It was a great moment,” Schag noted. “We threw a couple backyard parties and it all felt great. I thank the Lord for this spot I’m in, now it’s time to work harder.”

A major in sport management is the plan for the 4.0 student at Triway, who is excited about what lies ahead.

“I’m looking forward to everything,” noted Schag, who turned 18 on June 9th. “Spending hours in the weight room, bonding with teammates and coaches, getting after it between the lines on the field.” 

After all, it’s a game that Schag loves.

“Whether it’s BP in the backyard or playing the game in college, enjoy every piece of the game,” Schag concluded. “Do your best. Respect your coaches and your teammates. Represent the name on the jersey to make everyone proud.”