Scott Gracey was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 15th round of the 2008 MLB Draft

When Blue Jays fans hear the name, ‘Scott Gracey,’ they picture 25-year-old right-handed pitcher and 15th round pick for the Blue Jays in the 2008 MLB Draft. But do fans know he used to be shortstop? That he admires the game play of New York Yankees’ Derek Jeter or that he absolutely loves music? Fortunately, Gracey sat down with JaysProspects to share all of this and more as he discussed his path to professional baseball.

“Being drafted by the Blue Jays was one of the best days of my life.” Gracey said. “It was one of those things where you’ve worked hard for your whole life and so to have this opportunity and see your name pop up on the screen, realizing you have received an opportunity to play professional baseball, is truly a dream come true.”

Growing up in New Mexico, Gracey admits that he was raised a New York Yankees fan and always admired the game play of Derek Jeter. “My father is a huge Yankees fan and loved Mickey Mantle, so with his influence and being a shortstop I always loved the way Jeter played the game. He always seemed to be in the right place in the big moment. I’ve always admired how he handles himself off the field and how well spoken he is. A true professional.”

With that said, Gracey has also become a true professional. This was first witnessed in his first year with the Blue Jays. In fact, in 2008, the RHP played in 10 games (6 starts) for the GCL Blue Jays, posting a 0-1 record with a 3.00 ERA.  In over 24 innings pitched, he failed to give up a homerun and struck out 22.

Discussing this experience, Gracey said, “If you ask anyone who has played in the GCL they will tell you that it is one of the hardest leagues they’ve ever played in. It is so hot and humid, game times are at 12 everyday, it’s a true physical and mental test.”

Gracey obviously passed each test with flying colors as the following season he was promoted to both Auburn and Dunedin, where he started in 16 of his 17 games, posting a 2-8 record with a 5.42 ERA. Despite the record, he was still dominant on the mound, striking out 58 and only
walking 25.

“My pitch repertoire has helped me find success,” said Gracey. “I throw a 4-seam fastball, cutter, change-up and a curveball. My go to pitch is my cutter. It is definitely a pitch that I have confidence in and can throw it for a strike to both sides of the plate.”

Gracey was moved to the bullpen in 2010 where he posted a 1-0 record with a 4.87 ERA. “The biggest difference in moving to the bullpen for me was just the routine. I went from pitching every fifth day and knowing exactly what I was going to start, to the possibility of throwing every night. It was a definite adjustment but one I enjoyed.”

In 2010 Gracey played out of the bullpen for both the Lansing Lugnuts and the Dunedin Blue Jays posting a 1-0 record with a 4.87 ERA.

“This year was the first year that I was able to be involved in a pretty good playoff chase in which we were able to win and go to the playoffs. There is no better feeling than getting to celebrate and spray champagne on all of your teammates and coaches. Hopefully we can make that a habit for next season.”

But success, however, is not abnormal for Gracey as he also found success at the University of Mexico. What is interesting with this play there, however, is that he only made an occasional appearance on the mound as his primary position was at shortstop. In fact, in 2008, Gracey batted .332, driving in 43 runs with 12 doubles.

“I was a pretty solid shortstop in college, but I had a really good arm and scouts thought that I would translate at the next level as a pitcher. I was willing to do whatever it took to play professional baseball so I made the transition to pitching. I still love taking ground balls so I make sure I can have someone hit me a few every now and again.”

His defensive skills took flight at La Cueva high school, where he not only proved himself in the infield but at the plate as well. In his senior year, he hit .472 with three homeruns and helped the Bears post a record of 29-0 and helped them become state champions.

The young prospect also lettered in basketball. With his father being an NCAA basketball official Gracey was asked why he decided to choose a career in baseball over other sports.

“Growing up, I played both basketball and baseball, but my first love was baseball. My dad was also a high school coach so I kind of grew up on the field and was always around the game. Baseball was just something that came natural and something that I really enjoyed.”

In 2008, at New Mexico University, Gracey batted .332, driving in 43 runs with 12 doubles.

Gracey later admitted that his father was the person who got him playing baseball and taught him the fundamentals and how to play the game right. With that said, he also strong values the help and encouragement his grandfather has given him.

“My grandfather would push me and be my voice of encouragement. He would challenge me to work harder and tell me I could play at the next level. He taught me a lot about the history of the game and all the greats who played before me. I don’t think that I would still be playing if it wasn’t for him.”

Fortunately, Gracey has taken the support from his family and friends and has prospered into a strong player. He admits that his plan for the offseason is working on becoming stronger. “I also plan to spend my time relaxing with my friends and family back home in Albuquerque. I also love to do fly fishing, so I’m sure I’ll be getting my fix at our family cabin in Colorado.”

Yet, if Gracey is not at the gym working out, or at the cabin fly fishing, there is one other thing he could be doing – listening to music. “I am a big music junkie. I listen to a little of everything. I love going to concerts and listening and discovering new groups and songs. So if you have something good for me let me know!”

Be sure to leave a comment below of your favourite songs or artists or offer your support to Gracey by letting him know on Twitter at @ScottyGrace22.

JaysProspects wishes Scott Gracey the best of luck in the future. We also kindly thank him for his time.