11 July 2007


Meet a Mariner: T.J. Wise


Photo by Merrily Lunsford
TJ Wise....Merrily 

By Matt Rice
GateHouse News Service
Wed Jul 11, 2007, 06:54 AM EDT 

Harwich - Name: Jeremy (T.J.) Wise
Hometown: Apopka, Florida
College: Oklahoma
Age: 21
Position: Third base
Stats: 6-1, 205 pounds

After finally cracking into the everyday lineup for the Mariners partway through the season, Wise has made consistent contributions to the team offensively and defensively.
Wise is currently second on the team with a .282 average and in eight games as the Harwich third baseman, hasn’t committed an error.
During Harwich’s 9-3 win over Bourne last Thursday, Wise went a perfect four-for-four with three runs scored.

Q. What sort of changes have you made to your game, both at the plate and in the field, because of the wooden bats?

A. Well I swung a wooden bat a lot in college and in high school so I didn’t need to make too many adjustments. It was more getting enough at-bats early in the season to get me going. I didn’t get too much playing time to start the summer, but I’m in the lineup and swing the bat pretty good.

Q. What was it like pitching earlier in the year?

A. I was a pitcher during high school but I’ve only pitched a couple innings during college so it was an experience. But that’s one of the great things about this league, there isn’t as much pressure so I’m able to stay more relaxed, but I didn’t think I’d get a chance to pitch up here.

Q. What’s it been like living with a host family?

A. This is the fourth time I’ve lived with a host family and I really love it. You get to meet new people and make friends for the rest of your life. I’m fortunate to be living with a great lady and her kids so it’s been a great experience.

Q. The team has had to endure some tough times this season, what’s been the mentality of the team?

A. We’ve actually stayed pretty confident and focused on each game that we play. Win or lose, we come out and give everything we have.

Q. What do you normally do when not playing baseball?

A. I work everyday landscaping from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. so that doesn’t leave much time for anything else. But I’ve got to see some amazing houses down here while working though.