Wednesday March 27th, 2024
TEXT_SIZE

An interview with Blitz/Watanabe outfielder Richie Jones

Richie Jones

USSSA Playing History 2009-2011

USSSA Playing History 2008

USSSA Playing History 2006

GoSoftball.com Player Page

Who are you playing with in 2012?
Blitz/Watanabe

Why do you like the game of softball?
I like to see the progression of my team from the first time we step on the field to the last time.  So much can happen throughout the course of the year and its nice to see 15 guys come together for anything on or off the field.

Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
Brian Wegman

Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
Nick Weimer.  Can play all positions and his bat is good to all fields as well.  Look for him with EAP this year.

What is your nickname in softball?
RJ, Jonesy

Where do you call home?
Cincinnati, OH

What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
On my Houseboat in Dale Hollow with friends and family.  Always nice to just get away with the to be bride as well!!!

What do you do for a living?
Personal Banker for US Bank

Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
H.S- Football, Basketball, Baseball, Track
College-Baseball

How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
Same as most.  Just playing with some friends on league nights.  After a year or so I realized there was more to the game and I wanted to be apart of it. I called Mike Smith from Freeze Concrete and he offered me my opportunity.

What was the best advice you were ever given?
"There's always somebody out there with less talent as you and there will always be somebody with more talent then you.  Work harder to be more talented because the person with less talent is right behind you working harder"

What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
The things that people dont see are whats most important.  The dedication in the winter to take BP and workout.  Always want to get better for yourself and your teammates.  Play the game for those guys and your sponsor.  Not the name on the back of the jersey.

What position do you play?
OF

What batting grip do you use?
Standard with my knuckles lined up

What ounce bat do you use?
27

What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
Well this season has been rehab upon rehab.  Had rotator/labrum surgery right after worlds.
Normally for me though, its repetition all winter.  Dry swings and BP in a tunnel or off a tee.  Like to get in gym and cardio as well.

What is your favorite sports team?
Cincinnati Reds

What is your favorite sport other than softball?
To watch? Football.  Hanging out with friends, I like to shoot some billiards.

Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
Yes.  As I am going to my position in the OF, I run to the fence and say a prayer for the 3 people who have got me where I am today.  Not just in ball but in life as well.  I also thank God for everything I have in my life and my many blessings I am thankful for each and everyday.  Once I am finished, I tap the fence 3 times and point in their direction. R.I.P. Silky, Fran, Papa

What is your most memorable softball moment?
On Field: Would have to be winning the B world this past year with Blitz.  Especially with Red, Menke, and Jamison.  We been together awhile with Freeze and Pipe and have come close several times.  To finally all get that 1st ring together was pretty neat.

Off Field: Were at B worlds last year (2010) and had a very critical emergency back home involving one of our players wife.  We got this information as we were playing and Mr. Brett Helmer offered to pay the difference for his flight back home to be with her.  What do you say on something like this?  Very great memory I will always hold with me

What would be your "at bat" music selection?
Thunderstruck

What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Not sure.  I dont get involved to much with the complaining about politics or bats and rosters.  My 1 voice isn't going to change anything when $$$ is involved.  This is how it is and we all know were going to show up on the weekends.

What is your favorite non-World tournament?
Cincy.  Gives my family a chance to come out and watch.  Nice seeing the local teams always fair well in this also.

What is the best softball field you have played at and why?
I like Sterling Heights for the atmosphere.  Disney for being an OF'er, the grass is cut like a fairway!!!

Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
Winghouse can get pretty crazy!!!  Who next on the pop-a-shot???  Them waitresses are pretty good, dont let em talk you into a calendar, their not even in it!!!

What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
We had just finished a Local B NIT and were out in the parking lot having a few beers.  The Sunday night leagues were coming into the park and getting ready to play.  Our P at the time with Freeze put a thong on, a tank top and a cowboy hat.  He proceeds to walk into the park with a bat and glove over his shoulder asking if anyone needed a pick up.

 

 


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.