Joseph Vessecchia
Joseph Vessecchia
Ever since Joseph Vessecchia could remember, he has loved the game of baseball. The first thing his father did when he was born was to put a ball in his hands. Rumor has it, and his mom is adamant, that the first word to come out of his mouth was “ball.” From that moment on, Joseph was usually seen with a glove and ball in his hands—much to the dismay of his mother (things can break in the house).
While Joseph Vessecchia played competitively in high school both for his school team and summer teams, he also played at the University of Michigan for their club baseball organization. Joseph studied Economics at the university and enjoyed watching Michigan’s sports teams play when he had spare time.
Most of his life, Joseph has played shortstop and second base, but he has also played some games in the outfield. This is because Joseph was inspired by 13-time Gold Glove winner, Ozzie Smith of the St. Louis Cardinals—mostly due to his flair in the field, and quickness on the base paths. However, since Joseph is avid Yankee fan and enjoyed seeing them win 5 championships growing up, he can’t help but believe Derek Jeter is the best shortstop of all time. Since Derek is retired, Joseph’s favorite player to date is Aaron Judge.
In the last couple years, Joseph Vessecchia has been playing for the Blue Sox in the Woburn Men’s Wooden bat league as a middle infielder. He is hoping the Yankees can bring home the division title to the Bronx in 2019.
What is your hobby?
My main hobby is baseball.
How did you get started with this hobby? What inspired you?
I’ve always loved baseball. I’ve been playing ever since I can remember. My first word was actually ball according to my mom.
Derek Jeter used to be my favorite player growing up, so he was partly my inspiration. I also loved Ozzie Smith of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Tell us what you love about it?
I love playing shortstop and being the general on the field. This means you must ensure everyone is in the proper position and knows what to do with the ball when it comes to them. Having this responsibility was easily my favorite part of the game. As I got older, I was able to bring the same mentality to playing Second Base.
What is your favorite thing about your hobby?
My favorite thing is certainly the strategy behind the game. It requires a lot of thinking and premeditating what you must do before it happens. Depending on how many people are out, what the count is, and how many people are on base (and where)—it requires the fielder to make different strategic plays. There are also other factors I am not naming. The same thing holds true for when you are up at bat.
How would you say your hobby has influenced your life?
Playing baseball has made me very competitive, which has translated to me also being very competitive in my sales job. I always want to win and make the most sales on my team. However, since baseball is a team sport, I also love to help my teammates if they need to strategize on a deal or ask my questions.
I’m also a critical thinker, which is an important skill necessary for playing baseball. These critical thinking skills, whether it be understanding a client or trying to solve complex solutions for your customers, they help me sell more and be more valued as a salesperson to my clients.
Are there any groups you’re a part of that you attend related to your hobby?
I play shortstop and second base for a baseball team called the Blue Sox here in Boston. I’ve been on this team for two years now. I’m also very involved in my church and hold leadership positions there as well.
What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?
I would tell them to be patient and don’t try to master everything all at once. Focus on improving certain specific aspects of your game. If not, it will become overwhelming as baseball is a constant learning process.
After all, hitters who are successful 3 out of 10 times are hall of fame candidates!
Are there any other hobbies you have?
As stated earlier, I have a Monday night church group, and I also like reading different types of books regarding technology, finance, and self improvement.
To Learn More About Joseph Vessecchia:
josephvessecchia.com
medium.com/@josephvessecchia