Yarbrough headed to Methodist University

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on May 14, 2018 11:06 AM

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SEVEN SPRINGS -- A science geek?

Christian Yarbrough certainly doesn't give off that vibe at first glance.

Yet, he'll quickly tell you that technology fascinates him.

In fact, the Spring Creek senior built his own computer. He needed a year to get all the parts, which he received mainly on Christmas and his birthday.

It took one week to assemble and get the software running.

"It was a hard task, but I managed to accomplish it," Yarbrough said.

That tedious project is similar to Yarbrough's baseball career in "The Swamp." A former homeschool student, he didn't have the best demeanor when he stepped onto campus as a junior.

"I was definitely sorted out the first week or so," Yarbrough laughed.

Head coach Heath Whitfield, pitching coach Carl Whittington and assistant coach David McSwain worked diligently with Yarbrough.

The utility athlete quickly learned the importance of discipline and developed his skills, two assets he has consistently displayed during his short career with the Gators.

That effort drew the attention of many collegiate coaches, particularly Tom Austin of Methodist University. And when the two met, Yarbrough immediately knew he belonged at the perennial Division III powerhouse.

Yarbrough signed with the Monarchs on Friday.

"It's really 'homey' around there," Yarbrough said of the campus nestled in central Fayetteville. "Obviously Coach Austin, once I met him, he's like a father to me. His attitude and his emotions toward me were amazing. That stood out a lot.

"Before I came here, I didn't know if it was possible [to play in college] and I'm just glad to get the chance to play. It's like my dream's come true."

Yarbrough anticipates playing outfield at the next level.

Then again, it doesn't matter where he flashes the leather.

"Even if I don't get much playing time, I'm still going to do everything I can to make my teammates better and make them better in the classroom," Yarbrough said. "I'll do anything Coach Austin wants me to do to help the program out."

Methodist (32-12 overall) soared to as high as No. 4 in the NCBWA/D3Baseball.com rankings this season. However, the Monarchs dropped out of the poll after sitting at No. 23 a week ago.