Davis Does it All, Helps Anglers Propel East to All-Star Game Win
by Chris Jones Saturday, July 27, 2013
J.D Davis (Cal State Fullerton) had a great day for himself.
Davis was named the All-Star Game MVP for the Eastern Division after hitting a three-run home run, a double, scoring a run, and adding some nice defensive plays as well. Davis was only named a reserve for the team, but came in mid-way through the game and helped propel the East All-Star team to a 9-3 victory.
Earlier in the day, he had participated in the Home-Run derby, where he hit seven home runs in the first round and represented the Eastern Division in the finals.
"He did it all," Manager John Schiffner said. "He hit, he played great defense, he might even drive the bus home for us."
Davis entered the game at first base in the sixth inning with the East team holding a 5-2 lead. He made an immediate impact, blasting a three-run home run to center field in the bottom of the sixth inning off of Bourne Braves pitcher Ryan Kellogg.
photo by Chatham Anglers J.D Davis (Cal State Fullerton) accepts his East Division MVP award after going 2-4 with a 3-run home run and a double Saturday evening at "Red" Wilson Field.
"I had faced him (Kellogg) before during my college season, so I knew his scouting report," Davis said. "I waited for the first fastball and luckily I got a hold of it and got it out of the park."
Davis would add a double in his next at bat, then would score on a double from Orleans second-baseman Ross Kivett. Davis also made a couple nice plays defensively at first base, further cementing his status as the pick for the most valuable player.
It was not until the game was over, and Davis had finished doing a post-game interview for Fox College Sports, that he heard his name announced as the Eastern Division MVP.
"I was just trying to soak in the whole experience," Davis said. "It has been a humbling experience. All of the work I have done so far this season has really payed off. Hopefully I can carry it into the rest of the season and playoffs."
After being presented with a special bat by the League Commissioner Paul Galop and posing for pictures for the assorted media, Davis was mobbed by dozens of adoring children who wanted his autograph.
"It was crazy. Seeing all of the kids look up to you, want to talk to you, and want your autograph was really great," Davis said. "Took me back to when I was a little kid and I wanted to get all the players to sign my ball or my bat."
Davis was not the only Angler to have a good day among the best players in the Cape League. Connor Joe (San Diego) brought the Chatham style of batting to the All Star Game, drawing two walks and scoring a run.
Matt Gage (Siena) set the Western Division All-Stars down in order in the sixth inning, only needing 14 pitches to do so.
Dante Flores (USC) started the game at second base, and despite not collecting a hit, made some nice defensive plays.
Schiffner also got in the action, coaching first and third base throughout the game. He waved in one of the East team's nine runs on the night.
"It was so much fun," Schiffner said. "You get to see all of the guys playing, have fun with them, and get to be a part of the game."
For Schiffner, being able to be a part of the All-Star game and see his players perform well gives him a great sense of pride.
"You could say I am a proud papa right now," Schiffner said. "It was such a great experience getting to see my guys play so well. Definitely a great feeling as a manager."
Chris Jones is the Beat Writer and Social Media Manager for the Chatham Anglers. Follow him on twitter at @Chrisjones_UO, and follow the Chatham Anglers at @ChathamAnglers.
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