Josh Spence

Classroom

Spence is on schedule to graduate in May of 2010 with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree with a focus on Sociology and Education. When his baseball career is complete, he wants to coach and be a teacher to younger athletes. He would like to become a college baseball coach and give the message that you can stay in school, graduate, and still be successful in your career.

Character

Spence was voted a team captain this season. When he arrived on campus the team immediately took to the Australian and he became the most popular player in the clubhouse. When he suffered a torn ligament in his pitching hand near the end of the season, he simply readjusted his grip and continued to pitch. His first true game back after his "rehab" appearances was in Game 2 of the Super Regional against Clemson. All he did was throw a dominating complete game, sending ASU to the College World Series. Quick with a smile, Josh always greets people with a hug and always wants to know how your day is going.

Community

Spence is very active in the ASU Sandlot program, a little league for underprivileged kids run by the ASU baseball team. The players serve as coaches and Josh has given his time to work with the children on building not only baseball skills, but life skills as well. He is a active member of Sparky's Tour, a group of athletes and coaches who visit local schools in the Phoenix Area and talk about the importance of a college education. He also has participated in Inner City Shadow Day, in which children from underprivileged neighborhoods spend a day at college with him.

Competition

Spence is one of the most dominating pitchers in the nation. In his first season at Arizona State in 2009, Josh went 10-1 and an ERA of 2.37. He struck out 125 batters in 102.2 innings, helping lead Arizona State to a third straight Pac-10 title and a berth in the College World Series. He was named the National Newcomer of the Year by Rivals.com, a First Team All-Pac-10 selection and Third Team All-American honors from Baseball America and Collegiate Baseball.