It’s not often that a Long Island-born position player is able to play at a powerhouse Division-I program in the south. It’s even more rare to do thrive once you get there. It’s such a competitive atmosphere and the players from the south are simply at an advantage when it comes to hitting the high-end pitchers. Jason Ambos, a Bay Shore-native, but now at Elev8 Academy in Delray Beach, FL., recently announced his commitment to play at University of Central Florida in the AAC Conference. Ambos is a left-handed hitting outfielder with lightning in his bat and great speed. He plays summer ball for Team Steel. UCF was off to a 15-3 start in the 2020 season and well on their way to an NCAA Tournament appearance before the season was cancelled.
I had a chance to speak with Ambos and here’s what he had to say…
Can you tell us about your experience with the college recruiting process – how did you wind up committing to a top 25 team in the nation from the northeast? Were you able to see the campus? Was this a difficult decision to make?
First off, I have to give credit to the incredible coaches at Team Steel, Specifically Cam Sorgie and Keith Osik. They saw something in me and believed in my abilities. My recruitment process definitely fell victim to the pandemic, as I am sure many others were. Luckily as aforementioned, my coaches felt I had the ability and mental strength it takes to play high-level college ball and were able to get me in contact with many different coaches. From that point, It was extremely important to establish a relationship with coaches so they can try to decipher not only what kind of ballplayer you were but what kind of man you were as well. These conversations paired with the constant sharing of game video and practice allowed me to move high up on the recruiting lists. It is easy for many to say that the pandemic has taken away everyone’s opportunity but, I did not let it stop me. I worked out and practiced consistently which only helped add size, strength and helped fine tune certain skills. By continuing to get better and better, UCF became extremely interested in my abilities. The whole process lasted for about eight months from first contact to eventual offer. About a month prior to committing, my father and I were able to tour the campus as well as the amazing baseball facilities. From this point it had become clear that UCF was a place I could spend the next four years of my life. After talking to assistant head coach Tom and Head coach Lovelady about what makes UCF special, the decision was very easy and I could not be more excited to be a Knight!
Are you currently at Elev8 Academy? What was the motivation behind transferring there from Bay Shore? How frequently are you back home?
Yes, I am currently at Elev8 academy here in Delray Beach, Florida. After serious consideration, my family and coaches decided that moving here to Elev8 would give me the opportunity to drastically improve my skills but more importantly play the baseball that was stolen due to the pandemic. This, paired with the fact that I would still be enrolled at Bay Shore High School to take online classes, were the dominant factors that led to the move. In the short time being here, I have matured in every aspect of the game and am extremely grateful for the amazing coaches and players we have here. Regarding returning home, I was home for the holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas until I returned here to stay for the remainder of our spring season which ends in May. Judging by the way things are shaping up I am planning on returning to Bay Shore shortly after to play in my final season as a Marauder and wrap up my high school career.
What did you work on this offseason?
The biggest thing I worked on this offseason was defensively in the outfield. The great outfield coach here at Elev8 helped me refine my movements and taught me how to efficiently field and move to the ball. This training has helped me become a far more athletic ballplayer. In addition I worked on making my arm path more efficient to aid with velocity and accuracy, and this is something I will continue to work on.
Goals for 2021?
My goals for 2021 are fairly simple. I want to finish out my spring here at Elev8 and have a great final season at Bay Shore. From there I will continue to work out and get stronger to be ready for when I report to UCF in mid June to start my summer work.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
My favorite players in the MLB would have to be as follows:
Mike Trout: Not only does he play the outfield but the way he carries himself along with his raw ability is just something to marvel at.
DJ Lemahieu: If you are a Yankee fan, then you will know what I mean when I say he is the definition of a machine. I love watching his approach at the plate and how he puts on a hitting display for all who watch. Not to mention, the guy is clutch.
Francisco Lindor: Lindor is a guy I love to try and emulate. From his sweet lefty swing to his positive attitude, he is a really fun player to watch.
Who are some people that have positively influenced your career?
There are numerous people who have influenced my career for the better. My parents have no doubt had the greatest impact for always believing in me and for giving me the opportunity to do what I love. My brothers have also played a large role in my career. I have to thank them for always supporting me and introducing me to the gym where many of my skills were able to be amplified as a result. Finally, I can say without hesitation that Cam Sorgie of Team Steel is right there in terms of influence. He has stepped up to bat for me since day one and I couldn’t ask for a better coach. He is someone who I can call a good friend and I have no doubt that we will be in touch for a very long time. He is simply the best out there.
Favorite pregame meal?
My favorite pregame meal would have to be some grilled BBQ chicken paired with a baked sweet potato and asparagus. It sounds fancy but it’s super easy to make and it fills me up perfectly prior to getting ready for a game.
Favorite musical artist?
This is a tough one because I genuinely like all types of music, but as of right now If I had to narrow it down it would be between Post Malone, J. Cole, and Juice WRLD. This changes all of the time so it all depends on what I’m feeling.
Favorite vacation spot?
I have very fond memories of being in Orlando and going to Universal Studios with my family and having fun riding roller coasters. Honestly my family doesn’t go on many vacations so I would have to say my favorite spots are where baseball tournaments take us. Funny enough UCF happens to be in Orlando so maybe I’ll be able to head to Universal more often!
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
I’m sure this answer is very cliche but I would have to say Cooperstown. I played extremely well and had an amazing time at the event. Those are memories I will never forget.
Who’s some teammates you have gotten close with over the years?
Over the years I have gotten very close with players such as Chris and Matt Rouleau and Ty Panariello. Those are guys who I consider best friends. A name that almost nobody from the Island will know Is Carter Brady but he is from here in Florida and attends Elev8. Being older, he has really taken me under his wing and taught me everything he knows about the game. We have truly bonded and I cannot thank him enough for what he has done.
