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RHP, 6’3” 260 , B: R T: R
Jim Sajewich, the big “energetic” bullpen pitcher from Wheaton, Illinois had one of his most productive seasons for the Redbirds program by leading the pitching staff in appearances (27) and ERA (2.89). Sajewich is anticipating a solid season from the set-up/reliever role for the Mallards but wants to set his sights on improving as a pitcher to get back into a starter role. “In high school I was able to get away from using my fastball so much and mix in off-speed pitches, and this summer I just want to concentrate on getting better for next year. That means working on my mechanics and staying in shape.” A fan of Frank Thomas and a huge follower of the Chicago White Sox, Sajewich’s father and older brother were the two family members that got Jim involved with baseball at such a young age. “One of the best memories I ever had playing ball was at 12. My brother, 16, was playing on a team coached by our Dad and there were several players who were out with injuries on one particular day. I got a chance to be on the team that day with my brother and my Dad, and what made it even better was the fact I got a hit that day as well.” Throughout high school, Sajewich also played football and basketball but found baseball to be his primary passion, and made the decision to attend Illinois State University. “I chose Illinois State because I could be closer to my family. Plus I had good friends from high school that were going and some of the players I played against in high school were being recruited by Illinois State at the time. I figured I could relate with those guys because we came from the same competitive background.” Off the field, Sajewich is one who believes in a hard work ethic and hopes that attitude is the key to helping him get to the next level as a ball player. “When I’m not playing ball I’m constantly working back at home. But, on the field whether I’m in the game or not, I’m concentrating on every pitch and every moment of the game, because at any point I might be called in and I have to be ready to go.” |
“Hopefully in five years I see myself being drafted by a major league squad or maybe owning my own restaurant, that is what I’m studying at ISU.”