As the Brahmas’ star pitcher, Diamond Bar High School senior Jonathan (JJ) Smith continuously pours into the game he loves, in the current season and beyond.
Starting at just four years old, Smith’s biggest inspiration in baseball is his father, who introduced him to the sport and played the same position in college.
“Growing up, [my dad] has been a big mentor for me, and he’s also been my coach at certain points,” Smith said. “I always felt that he wanted the best for me and I realized that from a young age. Just knowing that I have someone there has been a big influence on me.”
Since he started playing baseball at such a young age, it has remained a constant passion in his life – impacting him both on and off the field.
“This sport means everything to me. I’ve grown up with it and all I really know is baseball,” Smith said. “I feel like if you were to ask anyone, they would know that’s kind of my identity.”
The game of baseball has taught Smith many lessons about life, impacting both his world view and his relationships with others.
“The friendships I’ve made through this program stem deeper than baseball. That’s what I love most about baseball,” Smith said.
Despite Smith’s commitment to baseball, his journey has not been without challenges. As is common in many pitchers, arm and shoulder injuries often prevented him from stepping onto the field.
“Baseball is a game full of injuries,” Smith said. “Being able to manage and stay on top of it has been pretty hard. It is really easy to lose motivation at times, so sticking with it through injuries is the hardest thing.”
Next year, Smith will play baseball for Citrus College in Glendora, California. However, that is not his final destination.
“I will probably go to Citrus [College] for two years, and then transfer to a bigger, Division I program. That’s the plan,” Smith said. “I will play baseball for as long as I can and just want to become the best pitcher I can be.”
Even as he looks toward the future, Smith is thankful for the presence the sport has had in his life at every stage, remaining confident that it will continue to play a role in the future.
“Baseball means the world to me and I try not to take it for granted at any time,” Smith said. “I’m very grateful for it, and I’m very grateful that I get to play, especially in this program. I just want to enjoy all the moments.”
