The Newark Bears Media Relations Department sat down recently with Bears outfielder Kennard Jones to talk about his hot start to the season and his career highlights. Jones leads the Atlantic League in batting average at .354 and triples with 7. On the year, Jones has 2 HR"s, 19 RBI's and 16 SB's in 57 games.
Question: What has made you so successful at the plate this season?
KJ: I think my work ethic and all the hard work I put in during the off-season has really been paying off. I have a better understanding of my swing and I have a gameplan in mind when I step up to the plate.
Question: Does your approach change at all depending on where you’re hitting in the lineup?
KJ: Not really. I always try to stay aggressive in the strike zone in whichever spot I am hitting. When I need to get runners over I do and I always pay attention to each situation and try to put a good swing on the ball. The most important thing I always tell myself is to stay consistent.
Question: Has your father-in-law, hall of famer Tony Gwynn, given you any advice with your baseball career?
KJ: The biggest thing that Tony has told me is to work hard and stay within my game. If I continue to do that, good things will happen. He has helped me so much and I try to learn from him whenever I can.
Question: Is there a memorable game or season that sticks out for you so far in your career?
KJ: As far as a game, I went 6 for 6 in a game last season with York, which was a big highlight for me. The season that sticks out is my one season at Indiana University. I truly enjoyed my time there and can remember every game that season, that’s how special it was. This year has been the best start of any season personally and hopefully it continues.
Question: You’re currently leading the Atlantic League in batting average and have been for a good portion of the season. Do you ever sneak a peek at the league leaders?
KJ: Every day before I go to bed. I want to make sure the scorers are putting in my statistics right every night. It’s definitely something that motivates me because I want to stay on top and keep producing at a high level.
