By Jared Wicks
SYRACUSE, N.Y.–Despite the fact that Hornell Dodgers Thaddeus Johnson (St Bonaventure) has not pitched in his two seasons of New York Collegiate Baseball League play, he can pitch and also play any position on the field.
Johnson from Frewsburg, N.Y. had a 1.67 ERA at Frewsburg Central School. This past sophomore season with the Division I St. Bonaventure Bonnies he posted a 4.45 ERA in 16 appearances.
Not bad for a guy who boasts a batting average north of .400.
Despite his team’s 5-3 loss to the Syracuse Jr. Chiefs Saturday night, Johnson improved his NYCBL batting average to .440 following a 3-for-3 night where he reached base all five times at bat.
Johnson holds the NYCBL Western Division’s best batting average.
“Just not over thinking one at bat, have the same approach and just make solid contact.” Is how Johnson explained his approach at the plate so far this season.
Johnson also credits “Good competition” during the college season as to what has helped prepare him for the NYCBL.
“Playing the last two years in the Atlantic 10 conference has definitely helped me.”
Don’t think Dodgers head coach Thomas Kenney hasn’t taken note of his ability to play defense as well.
“You know how people say someone can play all nine positions; he can truthfully play all nine positions.” Kenney responded when asked about Johnson’s versatility.
Johnson proved his defensive worth Saturday night making three put outs in right field including two in foul territory and one sliding.
Kenney has seen Johnson play all nine spots before including catcher when he coached him in travel baseball during Thad’s high school years.
Johnson’s connection with coach Kenney was what helped him decide to spend this season in Hornell after spending last summer with the Wellsville Nitros.
Johnson last season while with the Nitros played in 20 games, sported a .321 batting average and hit three home runs before a season ending injury cut his summer short.
Having played in now two seasons of Division I NCAA baseball and two seasons with different NYCBL teams, Johnson has been able to see the differences each level offers.
“The depth, and consistency in pitching” Johnson stated as what he sees more of in college over the NYCBL.
“In the A10 those guys are usually pretty good.”
The competition must be high at St Bonaventure as despite his lower batting average in college he still contests he is better with a metal bat over wood, but stated he’s “Adjusted well.”
“Sometimes it takes a little to get used to it (Wood Bats) but I’ve had a good start and trying to stay with it.”
Johnson and the Dodgers hope to continue their hot start as they host late afternoon Father’s Day tilt with the Niagara Power with first pitch scheduled for 5 p.m.
Leave a Reply