Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Gehrig Chambless

Gehrig Chambless put up some monster numbers as a senior baseball player for the Legacy baseball program this past spring, hitting .519 with 14 extra-base hits, scored 32 runs and had 26 stolen bases on the year. A captain for the Eagles, Chambless helped the team earn a 16-11 record — its best to date — and its first win in a district tournament game. For his performance, he has been offered a roster spot at Palm Beach State, where he will look to make the team and begin his college baseball career, beginning in the fall.

Which game from this past season was the most memorable?

As far as games, it would be our (district tournament win) against Foundation Academy — coming back in the ninth inning and winning. 

What are you most proud of from your time at Legacy?

I think to have as many wins this year as we had the last two years, combined, I think the team really came together well and it was really cool to see that happen.

Did anything surprise you about this past season?

I think my hitting surprised me — I hit .519 this season, so it was definitely my best season yet. I think I had the opportunity to become a better leader this year — I was captain and definitely continued to learn how to lead.

How do you feel you have left the program at Legacy?

I think it’s in a great place. I think it’s now reached a point where people are hearing about Legacy and it has become a place they want to come do, join and place baseball here. The program has improved so much.

What was the experience like playing for your father, Legacy head coach Jack Chambless, during your varsity career?

It was awesome. He is not only a great coach, but was extremely encouraging the entire time and always pushing us to be better. I would have never done it differently — I’m so glad he was my coach from when I was a little kid, all the way through high school.

What stood out about Palm Beach State?

They have an excellent baseball program. … I just think it’s a great opportunity to have a shot at making the team and seeing how far I can go down there. I’m also interested in the business and film programs, academically.

What are you doing to prepare for your college baseball career?

I’ve done a lot of working out this summer and also continuing to hit in the cages, practicing with my dad a lot. Getting bigger and getting faster — I’ve been trying to improve my “pop-time” and getting the ball out faster. That kind of thing.

If a youth baseball player who wants to be a catcher reads this, what would your advice for him or her be?

I think just being a good leader — setting an example for everyone else but also being very encouraging, especially with the pitcher. You have to make sure you stay calm, so the pitcher stays calm.

Which game has stood out the most to you as a catcher?

Dalton Cantrell pitched for us against Montverde (Academy) and that was really fun. He held them to two runs through the first five innings, and at that time they were ranked No. 1 in the country. That was definitely my favorite game (behind the plate).

What is your dream job?

I’ve kind of tossed it up in the air. I want to own my own business someday. The “out there” dream is also to perhaps be a (movie) director.  Of course, my dream is also to get drafted — that’s every baseball player’s dream.

What are some movies that inspire you?

As far as baseball movies, “Field of Dreams” is my favorite movie. As far as movies that inspire me, perhaps “Miracle,” the hockey movie about the 1980 Olympic team.

Where is a place you would like to travel to?

Alaska. I think the idea of it being “the Last Frontier” and I’ve always loved the outdoors. I’ve been to 47 of the 50 states, so I think Alaska is the next one I’d like to go to.