Marty DeMerritt: A Legendary Pitching Coach and Storyteller
Marty DeMerritt had a huge impact as a pitching coach during a career that spanned more than 40 years, the last 23 in the Rays’ minor-league system.
And he may have been an even better storyteller.
Former Rays pitcher/current broadcaster Doug Waechter recalled, “When he started, you’d sit down and you’d listen and you’d wonder if all of it really happened. The reality was, it did. The stories were just so outlandish, you’d question them in the moment, then realize all of it was true.”
A Life Dedicated to Baseball
After six seasons pitching in the low minors, Marty DeMerritt transitioned to coaching in the early 1980s, starting with his hometown Giants. He worked for the Marlins and the Cubs before finding a home with the Rays in 2001. He dedicated the next 22 years to developing hundreds of young pitchers in the Rays’ minor-league system.
A Unique Coaching Style
Waechter shared, “Marty had his own way — he was definitely an old school-style coach. That meshed very well with certain guys, and other guys it didn’t. Regardless, he always looked out for his players and knew what was best for their career.”
Waechter continued, “He’s a guy that I got to know very well, got real close with, and he helped me, no doubt. Without him, I don’t know if I would have made it to the major leagues. So he has a special place for me.”
DeMerritt’s unique style extended to his preference for being called Dog, Dogster, or Mad Dog rather than Coach, and referring to co-workers as “brothers and sisters of the yard.”
A Lasting Impact
Rays minor-league operations director George Pappas expressed, “I cannot overstate his impact on players and staff in all areas of the organization. He had stories for days. I’m going to miss him so, so much.”
Rays bullpen coach Jorge Moncada reflected, “There won’t be another ‘Dog.’ Many of us were privileged to share and learn from his legend.”
Remembering Marty DeMerritt
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Conclusion
Marty DeMerritt was more than just a pitching coach; he was a mentor, a friend, and a legendary storyteller. His impact on the Rays’ minor-league system and the countless players he worked with will be remembered for years to come. Rest in peace, Dog.
FAQs
What was Marty DeMerritt’s coaching style?
Marty DeMerritt had an old school-style coaching approach, preferring direct communication and tough love to help his players succeed.
What was Marty DeMerritt’s nickname?
He preferred to be called Dog, Dogster, or Mad Dog by his players, rather than Coach.
