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Oran's Rylan Mills swinging way into MLB Draft conversations
ORAN, MO. — Sometimes, the greatest talents are found in the most unexpected places.
Case in point: Rylan Mills, the home-schooled phenom who swung for the fences and knocked it out of the park in his debut season at Oran.
“There were a lot of people that questioned if I was good or not,” Mills said. “This spring helped solidify myself as the player I knew I was going to be.”
With a swing as smooth as his transition to public school, Mills led the Eagles to a state title and earned the coveted Class 1 Player of the Year award from the Missouri Baseball Coaches Association, proving that sometimes, the best players are found off the beaten base path.
But Mills’ journey to the top wasn’t a walk in the park.
The transition from the familiar rhythms of homeschooling to the bustling hallways of Oran was a changeup Mills had mentally prepared for, but the reality of navigating new social dynamics still presented unforeseen challenges and unexpected joys.
“It was a fun adjustment for me,” Mills said. “Being able to learn with other people with the same goal in mind as me was good. Once I got used to being in class and learning with 20 to 30 other people it just became the new normal for me. Socially, it was easy because I’ve always been around people due to baseball.”
The camaraderie of the classroom and the structure of a traditional school day were a stark contrast to his years of self-directed study, yet Mills found the experience invigorating.
The skills he honed in his home classroom—discipline, time management, and self-motivation—proved invaluable as he navigated the demands of academics and a championship baseball season.
"Being homeschooled helped me out in many ways," Mills said. "It allowed me to focus on the fundamentals, build a solid foundation, and prepare for the challenges of the regular season. It taught me that success isn't just about talent; it's about the work you put in when no one's watching."
The love for the never-ending quest to perfect his swing was evident in every aspect of his life, from the countless hours spent in batting cages and weight rooms to meticulous attention to his diet and academic studies.
“I’ve been in love with baseball for as long as I can remember,” Mills said. “For me, it was just falling in love with the grind, and working as hard as I could every day. That’s what makes it so fun for me.”
Mills' relentless dedication translated into a standout season. He anchored the Eagles' championship run, leading the team with a .468 batting average (min. 10 at-bats), 37 RBIs, 10 doubles, and six home runs.
His postseason heroics further cemented his legendary status. A clutch solo shot secured a 1-0 quarterfinal victory over Norwood, and in the state championship game, he unleashed a towering blast estimated at 403 feet, the ball leaving his bat with an astonishing 103 mph exit velocity—the highest of any hit at the final four, across all six classes.
“It was amazing to be a part of this year’s team not just because we won state but because we were brothers who weren’t just playing for themselves,” he said. “We were playing each other, which was a great experience.”
The Eagles’ midseason stumble against Scott City, a jarring 13-8 loss, became a turning point for Mills and the team. A candid conversation between the young catcher and Oran coach Joe Bickings sparked a transformation.
"That conversation changed everything," Mills said. "It helped build my relationship with coach Bicking, and as a team, I think losing a few close games put into perspective what we needed to change to become a championship-caliber team."
Bickings witnessed the evolution firsthand, observing his metamorphosis from a reserved newcomer to a vocal leader who rallied his teammates and ignited their championship run.
“[Mills] grew as a leader for this team and it turned our season around,” Bickings said, adding that he recognized something special in Mills from the very beginning. “His attention to detail and dedication are what sets him apart. He enjoys the game and wants to be the best he can be. He doesn't take any shortcuts and I believe that comes from his parents not allowing him to take any when he was younger.”
Mills' success on the diamond wasn't simply a product of natural ability; it was a testament to the collective effort of a supportive community that recognized his potential and invested in his growth. From his father, who served as his first coach and mentor, to the seasoned professionals who refined his skills and sharpened his mental game, Mills benefited from a network of expertise and encouragement that fueled his development at every turn.
“I’ve had a lot of outstanding coaches and people who were there to help me improve,” Mills said. “My dad was the first coach that really drilled the fundamentals of baseball into my head, and helped me become the player I am today.
“Trent Moses, has been my hitting coach for the past three years and has helped me greatly improve,” he continued. “Every time we get done hitting I feel like I know more than when we started that day. Finally, Braden Cox has helped me with my mentality the most and showed me what it takes to be a high-level athlete and competitor.”
Mills' breakout season has not gone unnoticed. With whispers of a potential top-10 round selection in next year's MLB draft circulating within the baseball community, Mills finds himself facing new challenges and opportunities. But the humble star remains grounded, focused on the journey ahead rather than the destination.
"It's just another season, just like the last," Mills said of his upcoming senior year. "I'm going to continue working hard and trying not to add any unnecessary pressure. If I can do that, I believe I'll be putting myself in the best position."
When asked about his plans post-graduation, Mills acknowledged the allure of professional baseball.
"It would be hard to turn down the chance to play professional baseball at an earlier age," he admitted. "It's always been my dream, but I will be leaning on God, my family, and my coaches’ opinions for the best path.”
Opponent batters may face an even greater challenge next season, as Mills contemplates a return to the mound. Last summer, he showcased a blazing fastball clocked at 94 mph before arm troubles forced him to shut down pitching. While undecided about his role on the mound for his senior year, Mills remains committed to preparing himself for whatever the team needs.
“I’m going to try to prepare myself as much as possible so that way if my team needs me to I can go out and compete on the mound,” he said.