MEET THE 2027 FLYING BISON COACHING STAFF
Bison always face the storm. When hardships arise, they stand strong and take their challenges head on. There’s no running from a fight and there’s no backing down. That’s the type of mentality we look for in our team. We’re excited to introduce you to the 2027 Flying Bison Coaching Staff who are going to take Abilene’s baseball team to new heights.
MIKE SPEARS
- Manager
Mike Spears brings extensive coaching and player development experience to the Abilene Flying Bison, most recently serving as Pitching and Player Development Coach at Chattanooga State Community College. His coaching background includes the Texas Collegiate League, Northwoods League, Pioneer League, West Coast League, and collegiate baseball. He is also the owner of Spears Pitching Development, specializing in pitcher development and advanced analytics.
Before pursuing baseball full-time, Spears served with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, earning both the department’s Medal of Honor and the California State Medal of Valor. His law enforcement experience shaped a leadership philosophy centered on discipline, preparation, accountability, teamwork, and performing under pressure. He brings those same values to baseball, emphasizing player development, resilience, and building well-rounded individuals.
MANNY SILVA
- Pitching Coach
Manuel “Manny” Silva joins the Abilene Flying Bison as Pitching Coach, bringing experience across high school, collegiate, summer collegiate, and international baseball. Currently an Assistant Pitching Coach at Chattanooga State Community College, Silva began his coaching career in 2022 at his alma mater, Atkinson County High School. He has since helped lead Citizens Christian Academy to a 2025 GIAA Class A State Championship and contributed to a successful pitching staff at PennWest Clarion. Silva has also worked alongside multiple MLB Draft selections and utilizes TrackMan, Rapsodo, and video analysis to develop players.
A former independent league player with experience in the United States and Australia, he brings firsthand playing experience and an analytical approach to the game. Silva’s coaching philosophy emphasizes player development, accountability, relationships, and preparing athletes for the next level.
TIM NEWTON
- Hitting Coach
Tim Newton joins the Abilene Flying Bison as Hitting Coach, bringing more than 25 years of coaching experience to the organization. He currently serves as an Assistant Coach at Chattanooga State Community College, working alongside Flying Bison Manager Mike Spears. A former infielder and utility player at the JUCO and Division I levels, including Florida Community College at Jacksonville and Cornell University, Newton has extensive experience as an on-field coach, strength and conditioning trainer, and private hitting and fielding instructor.
Throughout his career, he has helped develop high-level high school and collegiate players in New York and Tennessee. Known for his passion, energy, and dedication, Newton emphasizes maximizing each player’s potential through hitting development, training, strategy, and the mental approach to the game.