Coach Mark Stratton reflects on building Drury baseball from the ground up, focusing less on moments and more on the principles that sustained the program. From day one, the emphasis on character, academics, and local talent created a standard that carried through early adversity and immediate success. It highlights how intentional culture, not just resources, can define a program’s trajectory over time.

He also offers perspective on how the college game has evolved, from roster movement to NIL influence, and what those changes mean for programs built on development. There’s also a broader discussion around longevity, what it takes to maintain identity while adapting to a shifting landscape, and why that foundation still matters two decades later.

Coach Mark Stratton reflects on building Drury baseball from the ground up, focusing less on moments and more on the principles that sustained the program. From day one, the emphasis on character, academics, and local talent created a standard that carried through early adversity and immediate success. It highlights how intentional culture, not just resources, can define a program&rsquo;s trajectory over time.
He also offers perspective on how the college game has evolved, from roster movement to NIL influence, and what those changes mean for programs built on development. There&rsquo;s also a broader discussion around longevity, what it takes to maintain identity while adapting to a shifting landscape, and why that foundation still matters two decades later.

Stay in the Game with 102.1 The Won – Springfield’s Sports Hub

Welcome to the official 102.1 The Won — your all-access pass to local sports, expert picks, live betting odds, and real-time updates for the Springfield, MO area.

-Local Coverage, Local Voice — In-depth coverage of Springfield-area teams and sports stories you care about.
-Live Sports Odds & Boards — View real-time odds for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more.
-Pro Picks & Betting Insights — Daily expert picks and analysis to help you level up your game.
-On-Air Shows & Podcasts — Stream live shows like VSiN Primetime, Keys to the Kingdom, and more.
-Alerts & News — Get notified on big games, breaking scores.

Stay in the Game with 102.1 The Won &ndash; Springfield&rsquo;s Sports Hub
Welcome to the official 102.1 The Won &mdash; your all-access pass to local sports, expert picks, live betting odds, and real-time updates for the Springfield, MO area.
-Local Coverage, Local Voice &mdash; In-depth coverage of Springfield-area teams and sports stories you care about. -Live Sports Odds &amp; Boards &mdash; View real-time odds for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. -Pro Picks &amp; Betting Insights &mdash; Daily expert picks and analysis to help you level up your game. -On-Air Shows &amp; Podcasts &mdash; Stream live shows like VSiN Primetime, Keys to the Kingdom, and more. -Alerts &amp; News &mdash; Get notified on big games, breaking scores.