The new manager of the Tampa Bay Rays has some people rooting for him in his old stomping grounds.
Kevin Cash, 37, grew up in Tampa and has been winning games since before he was old enough to drive.
In a photo from 1989, a young Cash stands with his Tampa Northside Little League teammates when they advanced to the Little League World Series. Their ballpark still sits in a neighborhood near North Dale Mabry.
Cash spent his teen years playing ball for the Gaither High School Cowboys.
The school is buzzing with the news that a former student is now managing a Major League baseball team.
"I think it's phenomenal that one of our own that went to school here,” said principal Thomas Morrill. “We're extremely happy and excited for that. I know our coach is as well."
The 1996 graduate went on to play for Florida State before playing Major League baseball, including a stint with the Rays in 2005.
One of Cash’s jersey’s hangs proudly above his high school’s gymnasium trophy case.
That pride is shared by Cash’s parents, who say growing up in the Bay area helped shape their son’s successful career.
“I think it’s shaped him a lot,” said his father, Mike Cash. “Let’s face it, baseball in Tampa is huge. It always has been because great managers have come from here. So, I think the community here really got him going and you see what it’s done for him now.”
Cash’s mother said she is both excited and nervous as her son moves in to this new role.
"I think more nervous watching him manage because when he’s 11 years old, he’s not going to get lot of criticism,” said Patsy Cash, laughing.
Cash will replace Joe Maddon, who left in October and is now the manager of the Chicago Cubs. This will be Cash's first season as a Major League manager.