I am a contact hitter with gap to gap power, with decent defense. I have played shortstop majority of my career (received a D1 scholarship to be a starting SS), before moving to 3B a few years ago. I can also play 2B and 1B. My approach as a hitter is to have a quality at bat depending what situation is on hand, trying to hit behind runners to advance them, looking for a good pitch for a SF, working the pitcher into a high pitch count or just getting the offense started as leadoff. I think I have a good understanding on what needs to be done in order to have a quality game. My main focus is to provide enough leadership to the teammates around me – that way we can have more success as a team.

I can play the majority of positions (except pitching and catching). I was a lifetime shortstop which helps with any other positions. At this point of my career, I prefer corner positions (3B, 1B, DH)

Team success is more important to me than my individual performance. I tried to lead by example, and also provide encouragment to the guys. Leadership sometimes requires saying unpleasant things, but it is a big part of character – always trying to do the right things. I try to approach guys first with feedback, that way they know I am available for any discussion or extra practice.

Career Highlights

I have been elected captain of the Czech National Team 2 years ago and advancing through WBCQ into the WBC tournament in Tokyo was my biggest achievement and lifetime experience. I have been also the captain of the Eagles Praha for the last 10 years.

Captain of the men’s Czech baseball national team (4 European championships, WBCQ2019 Mexicali, WBCQ2022 Regensburg, WBC2023 Tokyo, Olympic Qualifications 2019)

US Universities attented: D1 Creighton University, D2 Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Former member of the Czech national teams (U12, U15, U18, U21), 5 combined juvenile European champions attented.
Two World Championships attented: U12, U15
European championship gold medals: U15, U21

Overseas Goals

I would like to experience other baseball cultures, I have played with many players that speak highly of such playing experience. I have been also involved with coaching, managing games, running baseball clinics for players and coaches – I believe this could also be added value that I bring with me. I am a kind of guy who likes to makes things happen.

I am busy with Czech Extraleague from March till August, and September will be all about the national team and our preparation for European Championship.

Videos

MLB.com: Petr Zyma’s two-run home run