Athletics have taught Crothersville senior lessons outside the lines

May 15, 2019

Jacob James says he has learned a lot about teamwork and the importance of being at practice every day while playing sports at Crothersville.

James is in his third season playing baseball at Crothersville, and he also played basketball and golf each for one year.

“Sports will definitely help me out in the future with communication with people and teamwork and being able to do that,” James said. “I’ve definitely enjoyed the brotherhood in baseball.”

James has been the Tigers’ second baseman for most of the season and also has played a few innings at pitcher and catcher.

He enjoys staying busy at second base.

“There’s a lot of action,” he said. “I’ll communicate with the shortstop (on covering second on a steal attempts).”

James also works with outfielders on fly balls.

“Communication is definitely important,” he said.”We work on defense every day. It takes teamwork.”

James said he likes batting in the leadoff position for the Tigers.

“I expect a fastball first,” James said. “On the second pitch, I mostly expect a curve.”

He said it is important not to fall behind in the count and that he’s confident he can hit most fastballs.

James said he enjoys playing at home.

“It’s fun being able to see people support us,” he said. “We lost a lot of seniors last year, but still being able to have fun and enjoy and teach the younger kids how to play (is important).”

For the Tigers to get more wins, James said the key is to continue working hard.

“We need to keep practicing hard and communicate and be able to work together,” he said. “Practice is really important. You’ve got to work harder in practice than you do in games. Some days, we’ll work on batting mostly, and some days, we’ll work on our fielding.”

James has enjoyed attending school in Crothersville.

“The teachers are nice, and the classes are nice, and being able to know everybody is really good,” James said. “I’m going to miss it. I try to have as much fun as possible.”

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Name: Jacob James

High school: Crothersville

Parents: Brandie and Gabe Ragan

Siblings: Lexi and Reagan

Sports: Baseball, three years; golf, one year; basketball, one year

Athletic highlights: Baseball MVP 2017 and 2018; basketball free throw award 2016

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