Wright City’s Dakota Billy – Baseball Spotlight – Presented by Jake Denison Farmers Insurance

Ever since Dakota Billy picked up a baseball at the age of four, he never let go. The sport became more than just a game—it became a part of him. “I’ve played baseball ever since I was four years old and never lost love for the sport since then,” he said. Through years of dedication, challenges, and victories, Billy has developed into a key player for Wright City High School, always striving to improve and push his limits.
His passion for the game was sparked by his older brother, whose influence fueled Billy’s desire to not just play baseball but to excel at it. “I grew up watching my older brother play, and that’s what inspired me to play—to become better than he ever was,” he admitted. The competitive fire between siblings drove him to work harder, train longer, and set his sights on greatness. His brother wasn’t just an inspiration; he was a motivator, constantly pushing Billy beyond his comfort zone to help him reach his full potential.
A crucial part of any successful team is chemistry, and for Billy, the Wright City squad feels more like a family than just teammates. “The team’s chemistry is at an all-time high. Everyone’s close, we support each other, and push each other during practices,” he said. That unity was evident in their championship run, where trust and determination played just as big of a role as skill and strategy.
Billy’s ability to adapt is one of his greatest strengths. As a utility player, he embraces the challenge of stepping into different roles, knowing his versatility makes him an asset to the team. “I play where I’m needed—OF, 1B, P. To prepare, I get as many reps as possible in each spot,” he said. His training routine is relentless, consisting of on-field work, hitting in the cages, and throwing solid bullpens at 70-80 percent intensity. His discipline ensures that no matter where he plays, he’s always ready.
Like any athlete, Billy has faced challenges. One of the toughest moments of his career came during his sophomore season when he fell into a deep slump. “I was in a terrible slump and couldn’t get anything to go my way,” he recalled. Instead of letting frustration consume him, he turned to his faith. “I just trusted God with everything and let Him take over.” That mindset helped him regain his confidence and eventually turn things around.
Now, Billy has his eyes set on the future. “I hope to have a repeat of last season and get another ring. My goal is to have an outstanding season to hopefully get an offer to go to the next level,” he said. His dream is to continue playing baseball in college, and ultimately, he hopes to take his talent as far as possible. “Hopefully, I’m pretty successful in the sport and make it to the league,” he added.
Through it all, Billy remains grateful for the people who have supported him the most—his mother, his older brother, and his coach. “My mother doing what she does for my younger brother and me is just amazing. The amount of hard work she’s put in throughout my life is what keeps me going on the field and as well off of it,” he said.
Billy knows success doesn’t come easy, and his advice to younger athletes reflects that mindset. “Gotta be coachable, have a good work ethic, and good sportsmanship,” he emphasized. With his determination, faith, and love for the game, Dakota Billy is ready to take on whatever challenges come next—one pitch at a time.