17 Mar Getting to Know…Jacob Degrom

Full Name – Jacob Anthony DeGrom Born – June 19, 1988 Major League Debut: May 15th, 2014 vs NY Yankees Hobbies/Interests – Hunting & Fishing Favorite thing to do on an off day – I enjoy the big city; I’m from a small town. I like walking in Central Park and other parts of the city. Favorite Ballpark – Right here, Citi Field. It’s a good park to pitch in Boyhood Idol and favorite athlete – Chipper Jones of the Braves. I grew up a Braves fan and Chipper lived near me. I looked up to him. Biggest Influence for your career – My dad, growing up he would always be having a catch or be hitting with me. I was always working with him, great work ethic. Favorite team growing up – Atlanta Braves Favorite athletes today: LeBron James and Phil Mickelson Meal I enjoy most: A good steak dinner Drive: The opportunity to put on a big league uniform every day is awesome. Many people dream of that, but very few get to do it. I am thankful every day I get to put on that uniform. First Job – I worked in a Fernery with a guy I knew. Most people have no idea what that is, but its working in a specialized garden for the cultivation and display of ferns. Player I learned the Most From – Zach Wheeler, he’s been very helpful in getting adjusted to the major leagues. Best Advice I Ever Got – Trust yourself and your abilities. Most Embarrassing Professional Moment – Walking out to pitcher’s mound to pitch and wearing the wrong hat, I was wearing our batting practice hat.  Most Disappointing Moment – Nothing so far, hope to keep it going that way Biggest Thrill To Date As An Athlete – When I was called up to the big leagues and made my Major League debut this past May against the Yankees in Yankee Stadium. Great place to make your debut in the big leagues.