MARION – The Thrillville Thrillbillies have hired Patrick Morey as the team’s new field manager.
Morey replaces Ralph Santana, who will stay with the organization as General Manager.
With a remarkable coaching career and a deep connection to Southern Illinois baseball, Coach
Morey brings a winning culture and a clear vision for the Thrillbillies’ future success on and off the field.
Morey joins the Thrillbillies while remaining as an Assistant Baseball Coach at John A. Logan College.
During his time with the Vols under head coach Kyle Surprenant, Morey’s pitching staff consistently
ranked among the nation’s best, setting multiple school records, including 532 strikeouts in 2021.
Under his leadership, the staff finished 11th nationally in strikeouts and among the top 25 in strikeouts per nine innings (10.86). Over 26 of his players earned NCAA Division I scholarships, with four advancing to professional baseball since 2018.
Coach Morey’s coaching résumé also includes roles with fellow Prospect League team the Danville Dans, McCook Community College, and Mount Michael Benedictine High School, where he made significant impacts. A decorated collegiate player at Hastings College, Morey earned two Gold Glove selections and was the 2008 All-GPAC Relief Pitcher. His competitive spirit and focus on player development have been evident throughout his career.
“During our search, we prioritized finding someone with a winning culture and strong ties to the Southern Illinois community,” said Thrillbillies General Manager Ralph Santana. “Coach ‘Mo’ not only embodies these qualities but also brings valuable experience from his time in Summer Collegiate baseball with the Danville Dans. He was a perfect fit for the role, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him lead our team.”
Coach Morey shared his enthusiasm for joining the Thrillbillies. “I look forward to continuing the
winning philosophy of this organization while taking an aggressive approach on offense to pressure
opponents. On the pitching side, our focus will be on simplicity—throwing strikes and making opponents earn every base. I’m also committed to fostering connections between our players and the community, whether through fan interactions at Mtn Dew Park or engaging in local events beyond the ballpark gates.”
Morey has already begun assembling the 2025 roster, reaching out to players across the nation while aiming to retain key returning talent. The Thrillbillies officially introduced Coach Morey at a special Facebook Live event on Dec. 6 at Mtn Dew Park where they also announced a release date of Dec. 12 for their 2025 season schedule.
