Corona High baseball coach Andy Wise has pulled off the most intriguing acquisition of the summer season.
Former Dodgers relief pitcher Joe Kelly, a Corona graduate, is joining the program as an assistant coach to help guide pitchers.
Known for his quirky personality and ability to thrive under pressure, Kelly has followed the program in recent years after retiring as a player and jumped at the chance to help the pitchers, Wise said.
“My conversations with him over the years have been incredible,” Wise said. “What an asset for the pitching staff and the whole program. He’s got the time and he’s got a lot of kids. He’s not going to be here six days a week. He’s excited.”
The plan came together after Wise went up to Northern California to speak with a group of players with Kelly.
“No stress, no pressure, anything you might help us with would be awesome,” Wise said told him.
Wise said Kelly has been following the team in person and on GameChanger and offering ideas.
Just having around a 13-year former MLB pitcher should be inspiring to players next season.
“Joe is Joe and I expect him to be Joe,” Wise said.
