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Billy Merkel

  • Veteran fulltime Major League Scout for 21 yrs with the following clubs: 
    • Professional Scout – Florida Marlins
      • 2008-Present
    • Area Scout – Kansas City Royals
      • 2006-2007
    • Area Scouting Supervisor – San Diego Padres
      • 2000-2005
    • Associate Scouting Supervisor – Tampa Bay Devil Rays
      • 1999-2000
    • Area Scouting Supervisor – Seattle Mariners  
      • 1995-99   
    • Area Supervisor – Oakland Athletics    
      • 1987-95
    • Head Baseball Coach – Austin Peay State University    
      • 1985-87
    • Assistant Baseball Coach – Austin Peay State University
      • 1984-85

 

  • Notable major league players signed by Merkel:
    • Chase Headley: San Diego Padres
    • Mark Bellhorn: LA Dodgers
    • Tim Hudson: Atlanta Braves

 

An accomplished hitter in his own right, Merkel finished his college career with a .351 average and also never hit below .300 in a season at any level.  Played at Union University, Columbia State Community College (.437 average and ranked 14th nationally among junior college hitters) and Austin Peay State University (Best Clutch Hitter Award 1979).

 

Merkel also served as the head hitting instructor for the Columbia Grand Slam USA from 1988-2004.  His multitude of students include many of whom have achieved noted success, receiving college scholarships as well as a select few who have signed professional contracts (most notably Dan Uggla).  He is also a charter member of the Jackson, TN Little League Hall of Fame.