Chase Edwards, Baseball

Chase Edwards’ love for baseball didn’t begin on a field. It started in a living room in Seattle, swinging at a foam ball with his dad. From those early moments to now patrolling the outfield for Spokane, the sophomore has built his game on passion, perspective, and a deep appreciation for the journey.

Growing up, Edwards was a multi-sport athlete, playing everything from soccer to basketball. But baseball always stood out. By age 10, he knew it was more than just another sport. It was his sport. Much of that connection stemmed from his family, especially his dad, who introduced him to the game despite not playing competitively himself. Together, they bonded over backyard practices and watching the Atlanta Braves, where Edwards idolized players like Chipper Jones and mimicked their swings from both sides of the plate.

“That’s where the foundation came from,” Edwards said. “Just having fun and enjoying the game.”

That sense of joy has never left him, even as the game has grown more demanding. Now in the thick of the college season, Edwards balances early mornings, classes, and long practices, all while continuing to develop both physically and mentally. His daily routine often begins with a quiet moment of reflection or faith-based connection before transitioning into the grind of practice and competition.

Faith has become a cornerstone of Edwards’ experience at Spokane. As one of several “FCA Athlete Leaders” within the school’s chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he helps bring together athletes from multiple teams for weekly meetings and Bible studies. The group has quickly grown into a meaningful outlet for connection beyond the field.

“It’s been really cool to grow with other athletes,” Edwards said. “Not just as players, but as people.”

That people-first mindset shows up in how he views success. While team accomplishments, like Spokane’s run to the NWAC Championship series last season, stand out, Edwards takes the most pride in something less tangible. His ability to keep going.

“Baseball is hard,” he said. “Just continuing to have a passion for it at this level… that’s something I’m proud of.”

It’s a perspective shaped by failure, a constant in baseball. Edwards embraces that reality, using setbacks as fuel rather than frustration. Whether it’s a tough at-bat or a loss, his approach remains steady.

“Learn from it, move on, and be ready for the next moment,” he said. “If I’m always motivated to win each rep, then I don’t have to flip a switch on game day.”

That consistency has helped him emerge as a leader on a Spokane team chasing a bigger goal. A championship. Edwards understands that success isn’t just about talent. It’s about culture.

“We want to build something where everyone is working for each other,” he said. “That’s when teams are at their best.”

Looking ahead, Edwards is set to continue his academic and athletic career at Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he plans to study business and eventually pursue a career in coaching. It’s a natural next step for someone who already finds fulfillment in mentoring others, having coached a 15U team this past summer.

But even with his future mapped out, Edwards remains grounded in the present.

“This game has shaped who I am,” he said. “It’s taught me resilience, how to handle failure, and how to grow.”

And through it all, one message remains at the core of his journey. One he hopes younger athletes carry with them.

“Have fun. Because at some point, the game ends. You just don’t know when.”