Barry Enright, the head pitching coach for the Los Angeles Angels, is not only excelling in coaching but also on the golf course. He recently won his first professional golf tournament, showcasing his talent and competitive spirit in both baseball and golf. Enright’s success in both sports can be attributed to his patience, problem-solving skills, and self-awareness, necessary attributes for conquering adversity and pressure in any sport.
Enright’s baseball career included stints with the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Angels, with his most successful season being in 2010. After retiring in 2019, he began his coaching career with the Diamondbacks, where he had the opportunity to learn and grow as a coach. His experiences playing Winter Ball in Mexico and Venezuela gave him a unique advantage in working with Spanish-speaking pitchers, allowing him to understand and connect with them on a deeper level.
As a pitching coach, Enright has been mentored by Brent Strom, the respected pitching coach for the Diamondbacks. Strom emphasizes the importance of passion, constant improvement, and an open mindset in coaching. Enright’s time spent learning from Strom has prepared him for his role as the head pitching coach for the Angels, where he hopes to make a positive impact on the careers of his pitchers.
Enright’s pitching philosophy is still evolving, but he values fundamentals, relationships, and trust in his coaching approach. Drawing on his own experiences as a pitcher, he understands the challenges and pressures his players face on the mound. Enright’s ability to establish trust and relate to his pitchers has earned him respect from his colleagues, including Angels manager Ron Washington, who praises his dedication and care for his players.
Despite the Angels’ struggles this season, Enright remains optimistic about the team’s chances for improvement. Working with young pitchers like José Soriano, he sees opportunities for growth and development within the staff. While his focus is currently on the Angels, Enright also looks forward to continuing his golf career, competing in professional tournaments, and possibly pursuing a career in competitive golf after he turns 50.
Enright’s ability to excel in both baseball and golf sets him apart as a versatile and talented athlete. His dedication to coaching and passion for competition shine through in both sports, making him a valuable asset to the Angels and a formidable opponent on the golf course. As he continues to grow and learn in his coaching career, Enright’s impact on the players and the team is sure to be lasting and influential.
