Player Interview: Jordan Scott, OF, Tri-City Valleycats (Class A-, NY-Penn League)

FEB 16th, 2012-He's only nineteen. To look at him, you'd think he was even younger than that. Don't let that fool you.

Once he's on the field, his entire demeanor changes; the eyes become focused, the smile fades, and youth gives way to a grim determination which belies his age.

Houston Astros OF Jordan Scott is nothing if not determined. At least, that's the impression I got seeing him play at Class A Lexington. I'm confident with that assessment. But I wanted to get an idea of his playing philosophy directly from the source:

When you were drafted in 2010 (14^th round), Astros scout J.D. Alleva noted your advanced bat control and awareness of the strike zone. Do you normally go to the plate with a specific idea about what you want to do, or do you more often rely on your physical ability and reflexes to make contact?

I definitely walk up to the plate with a plan, figuring out the situation and knowing where the defense is playing me and then letting my physical ability take over and get the job done.

What was the draft process like for you? Were there other teams who showed a serious interest in signing you?

It wasn't too bad and I actually had a lot of fun with it. It started early winter of my senior year where teams would come and have in home visits at my house, late winter I was invited to some preseason workouts with teams, after my season I was invited to pre-draft workouts. After those workouts I stayed in contact with all the scouts and figured out what it would take for me to sign.  As far as other teams involved there was probably a handful that showed serious interest in drafting me.

In your time at Lexington, I noticed that you seemed to take an all-business approach to the game. Do you see yourself as an extremely intense competitor or are you generally more even-keel throughout the year?

I am an intense competitor. There are times I am laid back and times where I am all-business.  When I am on the field I am all business. I make sure I get all my work in before the game so I give myself the best opportunity to succeed during the game. Off the field and in the locker room I am laid back and just try to have fun with all the guys.

At this early point in your career, what do you feel are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?

I still need to get better in all areas of my game, but right now my best strength is my hitting.  I spend a lot of time on it and I am really dedicated on getting better and hopefully and I can add some power in the years to come.  My weakness is my defense.  I need to get better reading the ball off the bat and taking better routes to the ball.   

Some players go into pro ball with a general idea of what to expect. Did you have a preconceived notion as to what it would be like, and if so, how did that compare with what you've experienced?

I knew once I signed it wasn't just a game it was also my job.  I knew it was going to be a lot of work and very competitive,  a lot of guys out there competing for the same position.  I don't take anything for granted. I go out there each day and compete and try to make my self better.

What has been your most memorable experience on the field thus far?

Most memorable moment was with Lexington this past year and playing the Greenville Drive in my hometown.  It was a lot fun a lot of friends and family came out to support me.  It was a great experience and something I won't forget.

When you reached Class A Lexington, you were among the youngest players in the league. Did you feel like there was a significant jump in terms in the pitching you faced? Was there anything specific you learned from the coaches or players that you feel has helped you as a player?

No it wasn't a whole lot different.  The game was a little more crisp and pitchers were more consistent.  At each level it is still the same game. I just prepare myself the best I can and just trust in myself and play the game to win.

Knowing that there are countless hours spent riding the bus from city to city, do you have a favorite activity you use to pass the time?

The bus rides are the worst for me because I can't sleep at all so I listen to music and get on my laptop to kill time.

What do you normally like to do in your off-time?

I usually try to get as much rest as possible.  During the season we put in a lot of time and work and it just wears your body down so it is always nice to get a day off and just rest up.

If there was any one piece of advice you could pass on to younger players, what would that be?

My advice would be to always work hard because there is someone always watching.  You may not have the most athletic ability, but you have the ability to be the hardest worker. Coaches always notice the hardest workers and it will take you a long way in this game.