Swinging for Success: How the 'Hefty Lefty' became a leadoff machine

SIKESTON — “The Professional.”

That’s what Portageville coaches call Aaron Dunlap, and there’s a reason why.

“He takes some of the most professional, disciplined at-bats I’ve ever had a kid take,” said Portageville baseball coach Tyler Trover. “I’ve had some good leadoff hitters but this kid is the best. He always gives a top-notch focus in practice. He is all-in to win. Kind of a quiet leader for us. But quite frankly, just an amazing kid in so many different ways.”

Portageville High School senior Aaron Dunlap recently to signed to continue his academic and athletic journey playing baseball at Mineral Area College.Tom Davis ~ Tdavis@semoball.com

Dunlap’s meticulous approach isn't just earning him praise – it's propelling him to the next level. He recently signed with Mineral Area College, where his coaches foresee that calculated style shining even brighter.

“Those disciplined plate appearances are going to show even more when he’s facing college pitching with college umpires, where the strike zone is even tighter,” Trover continued. “It’s really going to show how good his eye is. The ceiling for this kid is endless and he has the potential to be an exceptional college baseball player.”

Portageville juniors Mason Adams (9), Conner Johnson (10), Connor Jeffries (8), Beau-Hunter Warren (22), Carson Bradley (2) and Aaron Dunlap (4) stand for a photo after a 3-2 win over Barstow in 12 innings in the MSHSAA Class 3 third-place game at Sky Bacon Stadium in Ozark, Missouri on Thursday, June 1, 2023.Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

The coaches who’ve watched Dunlap’s transformation firsthand aren't surprised by his success. While his disciplined approach sets him apart on the field, it's his dedication and work ethic that impress them the most.

"He doesn't realize sometimes that he is a legitimate superstar, but he plays like it every single day," Trover said. "His ceiling is so high because of the late development. He's phenomenal for us but hasn't even tapped into the player that he is going to be, and he's going to get better and better."

Portageville's Aaron Dunlap (4) takes a swing during a 3-1 win over Notre Dame at Meatte Park on Monday, April 24, 2024. Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

The journey is inspiring. As a less athletic child, Dunlap faced challenges, but his determination paid off. He transformed himself into a physically gifted player while maintaining that unyielding drive.

“When he came into our program, he was short and stubby,” Trover said. “It’s funny because my dad, to this day calls him 'Hefty Lefty'. It’s because he grew up as one of the unathletic ones in his group and developed later into this physical specimen that's what makes him so special because, now, he has all the disciplines to go along with the physical attributes.”

Portageville's Aaron Dunlap (4) runs for third base�during a 10-5 win over Ellington at Meatte Park on Saturday, May 6, 2023.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

The rise wasn’t just about a physical transformation — instead of giving in when he was overlooked or struggled to keep up — Dunlap used it as motivation, embracing the extra hours in the batting cage, the sprints when no one was watching, determined to prove his doubters wrong with every swing, every stride.

“He’s just developed into this star centerfielder with a cannon who is a leadoff machine,” Trover said. “He’s a freak of an athlete, but most importantly just a solid human being. He’ll do whatever it takes for his team to be successful. He puts his body on the line, plays through injuries and is as tough-minded as they get.”

Portageville's Aaron Dunlap (4) takes a swing during a 10-5 win over Ellington at Meatte Park on Saturday, May 6, 2023.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Dunlap’s love for the game began at a young age watching the St. Louis Cardinals with his grandfather. But it's the bond with his teammates that sets baseball apart in his heart.

“Over the years it has become a brotherhood," Dunlap said. "Ever since we were little we were always outside playing and inviting each other over and hanging out, and that turned into a real brotherhood over the years because we’ve always been there for each other.”

The new chapter holds exciting possibilities as Dunlap won’t be alone. Portageville teammate Mason Adams will be joining him, ensuring a familiar face as he transitions to the collegiate level.

Portageville's Aaron Dunlap (4) slides into second base during a 3-2 win over Barstow in 12 innings in the MSHSAA Class 3 third-place game at Sky Bacon Stadium in Ozark, Missouri on Thursday, June 1.Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

"[Mineral Area] just seemed like a great fit when I visited," Dunlap explains. "I liked the campus and everything the coaches have going on with the baseball program. I’m just looking forward to getting to keep playing baseball and having fun.”

And while the future is bright, Dunlap will never forget the importance of those who helped him along the way.

"My biggest advice is to work on team unity, that unbreakable bond,” he concluded. “For younger players, treat each other like family, hang out outside of practice, and always be there for one another. Push each other to be better, because that's how you all grow together as a team."

Portageville's Aaron Dunalp (4) sprints�during�an 8-4 win over West County in a MSHSAA Class Quarterfinal at Meatte Park in Portageville, Missouri on Thursday, May 25, 2023.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat