May 28, 2004
| Jonny Ash |
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| Sport: Baseball |
Every time he steps onto the field, Jonny Ash expects to win. Stanford's senior third baseman is very competitive.
"I'm a competitor. I love competition," Ash said. "I want to win at everything I do. I'm serious but I'm not afraid to laugh and stay relaxed. I want to put myself in a good situation to help the team to win. Whatever it takes, whatever I can do. I just want to win."
Ash has certainly had plenty of opportunities to win at Stanford. Stanford has enjoyed successful seasons each year he has been a part of the program. Ash appreciates the chance he has had to be a part of such a good program.
"It feels unbelievable. It's like a dream come true, especially being from the Bay Area. The combination of athletics and academics is by far the best in the country. It's an honor to be part of one of the best universities in the country."
Ash is certainly correct in his summation of Stanford. Over his college career, he has had the chance to participate in the College World Series three times. There are not many schools where he would have the opportunity to enjoy such success. Ash has been a clutch player over the many postseasons he has enjoyed. It was in the College World Series last year where things fell into place for Ash.
"I hit my first college home run against Cal State Fullerton (in the College World Series) off Chad Cordero last year. Dave (O'Hagan) was pitching. Right after the home run, I sat with Dave (in the dugout). We both thought about how fortunate we were to contribute. I think this is the game where Dave and I became the type of players we are now."
The type of player Ash is now is quite a versatile one. Even though he missed 15 games due to a finger injury, Ash is currently hitting .382 with four homers and 31 RBI. When he made his return to the lineup last weekend, Ash was named Pac-10 Player of the Week after hitting .462 (6-for-13) with two doubles, a triple, four RBI, and four runs scored giving him a .769 slugging percentage and a .533 on-base percentage. This type of play is typical of the self-described leader.
"I'm the lone senior in the infield so I am a leader. I know I have to have a voice. I feel I am a vocal leader, on and off the field. It's nice to have the opportunity to use my experience. I hope I leave my teammates with something to follow. I want to help pass on the Stanford Baseball tradition."
Ash's leadership has not gone unnoticed. He is the leader of the team's pre-game infield practice. Leading the practice has brought Ash much satisfaction.
"I remember when (Stanford head) coach (Mark) Marquess informed us that several of our opponents' coaches had complimented him on the way we take infield practice. I felt proud of that because the practice sets the tone for the game. In some ways, I feel we can beat our opponent when we take practice because we are so organized and in sync with each other. It's something that usually goes unnoticed, so for several opposing coaches to compliment us on it is big."
Ash's pride in the compliments is just one example of the value he has to the team. Coach Marquess recognizes what an important part of the team Ash has been.
"Jonny Ash has had a tremendous career at Stanford and has saved his best year for last," commented Marquess. We really missed him when he was out for 15 games with his injury, and we're very happy to have him back."
Over his four seasons at Stanford, Ash has had the opportunity to experience many different things. He has learned a lot from these experiences.
"I feel that I've grown into a man," Ash said. "Off the field, my experiences have taught me a lot. On the field, I have had some ups and downs and I have learned how to deal with them. I've learned how to have a certain mental approach and I think this has made me a better player."
The mental approach Ash takes is very important to him. He places great importance in the mental side of life. Given an honorable mention as a Pac-10 All-Academic this season, Ash has represented the team on many councils.
"The Cardinal Council serves as a liaison between the student-athletes and the administration. I represent the baseball team and I also serve on the academic advisory committee. I served on the CAPER Committee (a committee comprised of Stanford faculty and students which decided on important policies) which was a special chance for me."
Ash hopes to enjoy many special chances in his future. He is expected to be drafted in the MLB First-Year Player Draft this June.
"I hope to get drafted by a good organization and pursue my dream of playing Major League Baseball. I want to play until they tell me to get off the field."
The way Ash is playing, he shouldn't be asked to get off the field for a long time. Ash has played baseball nearly his whole life and always dreamed of playing professionally.
"My family has pictures of me holding a bat when I was learning to walk. In addition to baseball, I played soccer and martial arts growing up. I realized that baseball is the one sport I could have a future in. Physically, baseball fits me best. I love to play the game."
Ash's love for the game has been fostered by his family. Ash's parents, Wil and Carol, have supported their son every step of the way.
"My father taught me to play baseball. He coached me from the time I was six years old up until I entered high school. He knows how to help get me ready to play. He's my best friend, my mentor, and my psychologist. He means the world to me. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for him."
"My mother always stressed doing well in academics and to be a good person. When my sister and I wanted to work at something, she was always there to help us when we needed her."
Ash took all the lessons his parents taught him to heart. He has enjoyed a wonderful career at Stanford, both academically and athletically. While he intends to continue his baseball career, he also has plans for his academic career.
"I would be interested in going to law school. Education has always been very important to me. I would like to obtain a post-graduate degree because it can open so many doors."
These sort of plans are typical of Jonny Ash. He has taken advantage of many of the things Stanford has to offer. In his mind, it is only natural to benefit from his surroundings. When asked to describe himself, Ash focuses on his strong drive for success.
"I'm a determined individual and a hard worker. I'm competitive. I've gotten where I am due to my strong work ethic."
With his talent and attitude, Ash is sure to have many chances to be competitive in the future.
by Janelle Kwietkauski