Columbus East High School

As the calendar turns toward spring, a new energy is vibrating through the diamonds at Columbus East. Following the 15-year tenure of Jon Gratz, the Olympians are entering a new era under the leadership of Christian Brown. Coming off a 2025 season where many games were decided by a razor-thin margin, Coach Brown is shaking things up—literally. From 5:30 AM practices to team yoga sessions, the focus is on mental toughness and physical "relentlessness." We sat down with Coach Brown to discuss the new identity of the program, the "free base" battle, and what fans can expect when the Olympians travel to Whiteland on Tuesday, March 31st to open the season. On Establishing a New Identity Q: You’ve stepped into a program with a long history. What is the "Christian Brown" stamp on this team so far? Coach Brown: We have been relentless in our demand for players and our approach to the season. We’re building players both on the playing side and the mental aspect. Looking at last year, there were a lot of games decided by one or a few runs. We are trying to throw everything at the team to get them out of their comfort zone—this includes yoga as a mental and physical tool and 5:30 AM morning practices. We want these boys to have the confidence to believe that no matter the score, we believe in ourselves, our teammates, and our training. Navigating the Schedule Q: You open with Whiteland, but the first week is a gauntlet. How do you view the early-season slate? Coach Brown: I’m a firm believer in playing a top-end schedule. Opening with Whiteland will be a strong start; they are always a good program. Our seniors have a goal to be highly competitive within a very strong conference. We actually start week one with five games, ending with a doubleheader at Indy Lutheran. As we grow, I’m excited to see how we deal with adversity. Will we rise together or fall alone? Our goal is to be playing our best baseball by the time week one of sectionals arrives. Overcoming the "Free Base" Battle Q: Last year’s record was a hurdle. What is the specific on-field adjustment you are emphasizing this spring? Coach Brown: We really emphasized the margin of error when it comes to "free bases"—walks, HBP, stolen bases, and errors. Usually, the team that wins that category wins the ballgame. We want to be the aggressors, forcing pitchers to feel the pressure and forcing other teams into errand throws. We’re also taking a "game by inning" approach. Instead of just "winning or losing a game," we ask: Did we win or lose these specific innings? Did we get the job done in this situation? The Roster: Impact Players to Watch Q: Who are some players that the Olympian faithful should keep an eye on this spring? Coach Brown: I expect all of our seniors to play a role; I already see a difference in how they lead and bring calm to practice. Specifically, I’m expecting a breakout season from JD Rotert. Everyone knows his capability on the mound and at the plate, but the ground he covers roaming center field makes him a "must-have." In the lineup, Aiden Bumbalough will likely be our 3 or 4 hole hitter with score-changing power at the plate; he will also be our primary catcher. Then we have Bige Asher, who is really our anchor. He’s been a constant presence at workouts, and having his frame at 1B helps our fielders feel more confident. I also expect his bat to play at the top of the lineup. Most of my junior class has played together for years, so that chemistry is high. We also have some sophomores and a freshman or two who are highly coachable and may get varsity reps. I’m a firm believer that you play the guys that get it done. Adapting to New Leadership Q: How has the team adjusted to your coaching style? Coach Brown: There was an expected period of "what is this guy about?" They’ve learned quickly that I’m a loud individual—that’s just my personality. I also think they’ve learned that when I’m quiet, that’s when I’m actually mad! (Laughs). But I’m learning them as they learn me. Not every player can be coached the same way. As I build these relationships, I’ll have a stronger understanding of how to approach different players throughout the season. Defining a Successful Season Q: When you look back in June, what will make this season a success in your eyes? Coach Brown: I approach coaching as if these young men are my own kids. They should enjoy the season regardless of the outcome. Success is watching this team grow together and lean on each other to pull out wins in those close games, or staying disciplined against teams that may not be the same caliber. Seeing the upperclassmen lead by example and be open to change has me excited for the future of the program. Thank you Coach Brown for your insight on the season ahead and good luck Olympian Baseball!