This week we are joined by the Pirates’ Josh Harrison. Recently I had the pleasure of listening to Josh speak to a small group at the Green Diamond Gallery in Montgomery, OH (words can’t describe how cool that place is) and then sit down with him for a one on one interview. It doesn’t take long to see that he has a very likable personality and is passionate about playing in the big leagues for years to come. In 2011 he hit .310 in AAA before getting called up to the Pirates and hitting .272 over almost 200 AB’s.
Josh has played multiple positions over the past few years, and at one point in the night was asked which position he would prefer to play this upcoming season. His answer was simple, yet profound. “Whatever position will keep me in the Big Leagues.” It’s a great lesson for any ballplayer out there trying to make a team and earn more playing time. Be a team first guy!
Many thanks to Josh for taking the time to sit down with Next Level Ballplayer to talk about his hitting routine that keeps him out of slumps, Eddie Murray’s hitting advice when facing hard throwing pitchers (hint: get your front foot down), what it means to have a good two strike approach at the plate, what motivates him and more.
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A few quick Josh Harrison quotes for your wall:
“If you find yourself struggling (at the plate), a lot of times it’s not your swing. It’s just a matter of getting your foot down, being consistent and being ready… Where we go wrong is not being ready and on time.”
“Don’t try to prove other people wrong. Just try to prove yourself right.”
Josh Harrison
Height: 5′ 8″
Weight: 175
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Position: 2B, SS, 3B, LF
Drafted: 6th Round, 191st Overall, 2008 by the Chicago Cubs
College: University of Cincinnati
MLB Debut: May 30, 2011 with the Pittsburgh Pirates
