By: Nicole Grazioli '12
C.J. Jacobe's dream of playing professional baseball came true when he was drafted by the Oakland A's in the 45th round of the 2011 Major League Baseball First Year Player Draft. Even though he was happy and honored to be drafted, he decided to continue to work on improving his skills to become an even better player. As a result, the Vacaville, Calif. native enrolled at Santa Clara in Sept. and is a freshman on the baseball team.
"I felt truly blessed when I was drafted," Jacobe said. "However I believe there is much more room for improvement in my abilities."
Even though he had the typical tough transition from high school to college at first, he is now doing well and is happy with his decision to attend Santa Clara.
"I knew that Santa Clara was the right place for me to come play," Jacobe remarked. "I love just about everything here, especially being able to hang out with my teammates everyday and to be able to see my family frequently while at school."
With new head coach Dan O'Brien, the team is looking towards a season filled with success. Spring practice began on January 27 and since then the squad has been working hard for the upcoming season.
"Spring practice has been going well so far," said Jacobe. "I keep learning more as we keep heading forward."
Being a freshman can be tough at times, but the outfielder/DH has said that the older players have helped him along the way and have been great role models to the younger players.
"I really look up to the older players on our team and have learned so much from each of them so far," said Jacobe. "We have some really talented players on our squad that I feel honored to play with."
Even though Jacobe was a little nervous to begin his first collegiate season, he considers himself prepared and ready. As he stated clearly, his main goal for the season is to win. So far the Broncos have fulfilled that goal winning their first 2012 game 5-4 at Texas State University on February 18. The Broncos are 6-2 and are hopeful to keep the streak going.
The team plays it's next game home against University of Nevada, Reno on Tuesday, February 28, at Schott Stadium at 6:00pm.
To stay up-to-date throughout the SCU baseball season, follow on Twitter at: @SCU_Baseball and on Facebook: Santa Clara Broncos Baseball.