2020 Free Agent Jay Velez

Jay Velez

Interview conducted on 5/19/2020

Who are you playing with in 2020, and who have you played with in the past?
Currently a Free Agent, but have played with The Free Agents out of Tx, Bulls, and TNBT.

2020 Free Agent – Baconisntfree@gmail.com

What positions do you play and what is your best position?
I’m a utility player, but I am a true blue pure Outfielder with speed and an arm to match.

Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
That’s a tough question… my OG first real big Tyne experience was playing with Jason Branch, Luis Reyna, and Jeff Bloomer way back when I was still wet behind the ears.

Why do you like the game of softball?
The camaraderie and competition!

Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
Honestly there are so many young guys out there, but Dustin Lee aka Baby Lee… is already making a name for himself but that’s my guy and has pure talent to look out for.

What is your nickname in softball and how did you get it?
I’ve have/had 2 nicknames… in the past it was fireball which I doubt an explanation is needed. But now it’s hybrid because of my ethnic mix and the different levels of the game I bring to the field.

What is your height and weight?
5’9” and currently 190lbs

Where do you call home?
Tampa, FL

What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
Is there a such thing as an off weekend? Always have to be a student of the game and life.

What do you do for a living?
I’m a sales representative

Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
Yes i played baseball all through high school and some in college.

How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
Playing military softball in fort Meade Maryland back in 2010, and my start in upper was brought on when I played my first superdraft on the team of Branch,Reyna, and Bloomer.

What was the most surprising difference between Conference play and non-Conference play when you made the jump?
The defense and the tempo of the game is out of this world. The mid hits that would squeak by in lower would never happen and the defense will make you pay for it.

Is there a player that you would compare your game to?
I would never compare myself to another, and I’ve been called a hybrid because I bring a different level and version of passion and dedication to the game.

What would you say is your career highlight to this point? Maybe one play or game that sticks out to you in particular?
Highlight of my career is winning true military world championship in 2016, and Jacksonville Florida taking the sweep that year. Also not on play that sticks out but it seems like EVERYTIME KL Photo Bliss is around I end up hitting game winning walk off HRs. 

In your career was there a single person (player/manager/coach) who had the most significant impact on your approach to the game? Why?
Jason Branch… his passion and his advice since I’ve met him has always stuck with me. The raw passion and talent he brings to a field is an inspiration.

What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
Never feel like you’ve done enough, continue learning and being a student of the game you love.

What type of batting grip do you use and what ounce bat?
Baseball grip, and 26oz end load.

What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
Lift, and lots of tee work!!!

What is your favorite sports team and your favorite sport other than softball?
New York Yankees, and baseball of course!!!

Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
After game 1 bat bag position has be the same if we won or different if we lost!

What would be your "at bat" music selection?
T.I- Bring Em Out

What is your favorite non-World tournament and why?
Florida Superdraft

What is the best softball field/complex you have played at and why?
Skyview Sportsplex, Colorado Springs

Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
Waffle House!!!

What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
Anyone face planting out the box!!! Gets me EVERYTIME!

Tell us something about you that most would never know about you?
Certified in culinary arts, and hmmm I’ve always wanted a ferret.