Christian McNew made his college choice official on Tuesday morning, May 12, signing to continue his baseball career at Twin Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. He’s one of a handful of standout local athletes headed to the program in the 2026 class.
With a few options on the table, McNew said that becoming a Raider was an easy choice as he joins former head coach Matt Palmer, who will serve the same role for McNew as he trades the orange and black for the black and gold.
McNew said that through his contact with Palmer, he reached out and received an opportunity to check out the digs. When he got to campus, it sounds like something just clicked.
“I committed on the spot,” McNew said. ”I loved it there. It was amazing.”
The Tigers have leaned on McNew in the middle order and haven’t often been disappointed. A few weeks ago, he clubbed a pair of home runs in one game of Cape Central’s wood bat tournament, and he has plenty more to show for that powerful bat.
“He’ll add a big bat to their lineup, just like he has for us,” Cape Central coach Steve Williams said. “He's a very aggressive left-handed hitter. He has a very good eye and a good knowledge of the strike zone.
“As he develops as a hitter, he's really going to give some people problems at the next level.”
In 31 games so far this season, McNew is batting .317 with eight extra-base hits against a strong schedule for the Tigers, adding another six doubles with 19 runs batted in.
What’s more, Williams said, is his tenacity off the field, cited for a tremendous work ethic to go with his powerful 6-foot-3 frame.
“He’s one of the hardest workers we've got,” Williams said. “He works hard every day. Sometimes he’s too difficult on himself when he doesn't do as well as he thinks he could, but he provides a great example of leadership for our team.”
Gathering at Cape Central to celebrate his signing, with many of his jerseys from along the way decorating his table, McNew recalled his signing as he’s just a few days away from wrapping up his time as a Tiger — academically, at least.
Bringing his whole family on campus for the event made it all the more special.
“They're my everything,” McNew said of his family. “They’ve had my back every step of the way. They always have.”
With district play beginning next week, McNew talked about what’s left in store as the 17-14 Tigers venture into a loaded Class 5 District 1 bracket.
“It's like a storybook to us,” McNew said. “We didn't think we'd be here. We didn't think it would be in the position that we’re in. But we're bringing everything we have to districts.”
Cole B. Lee - Daily American Republic