Madison Mallards Program 2019 Program | Page 69

Bigbie’s resume grew during his sophomore season, as he became one of the key players for the Catamounts. Bigbie was named the 2019 Southern Conference Baseball Player of the Year by both the league’s head coaches and the voting members of the Southern Conference Sports Media Association (SCSMA). He was also named to the First-Team All-Southern Conference team at third base.

His list of achievements has only expanded during his second season in Madison. Already this summer, Bigbie has topped the charts in home runs, leading the league with 12 and RBIs, leading the league with 57. He earned the second longest hitting streak in the Northwoods League with 29 and was crowned MVP of the Northwoods League 2019 All-Star Game.

Bigbie’s success did not come to him by luck. The admiration from his coaches and teammates for his achievements is rooted from witnessing his hard work ethic.

“His attention to detail, work ethic and love to compete is unmatchable,” Moranda said. “He shows up early to get extra reps in the cage, he takes the extra ground ball, he will outwork anyone.”

Though his prosperity on the field is noticed and discussed, it is his humble attitude that is also valued by Bigbie’s teammates and coaches.

The term ‘leaders eat last’ is often a phrase used to describe him, as Bigbie is known for being the last one in the locker room straightening up a mess or giving his teammates advice when asked.

“I want to be that guy my teammates can come to about anything, not just baseball,” Bigbie said. “When I was younger I wanted to be able to approach the older guys, so I want the younger guys to know they can talk to me.”

Donnie Scott claims the combination of his unpretentious behavior and solid work ethic causes him to stand out among other athletes.

Similar to professional baseball, the Northwoods league has games almost every day, and players are given very few days off. Bigbie has managed to stay composed throughout his busy summers in Madison.

“He is what I would call the ultimate professional because he is consistent with everything in his life emotionally and physically.” Scott said. “ There are a lot of guys that play this game that are all over the place, when you struggle you have to learn to find consistency and he already has it.”

Once the Mallards season is complete, Bigbie will return to Western Carolina for his junior season. After his junior year is over, Bigbie will be eligible for the Major League Baseball draft, since he will have completed three seasons of college baseball.

His junior campaign at Western Carolina potentially could be his last, and this may be his last summer wearing a Mallards jersey as well.

“I understand this could be his last year in our program, he’s definitely opened a lot of eyes” Moranda said. “He has earned everything he has and it has been really cool to witness, he truly is a great American story.”

A LOOK INTO JUSTICE BIGBIE'S SUCCESS