Jay J.M. Johnson (2024) - Hall of Fame - Xavier University Athletics

Jay J.M. Johnson

Induction:
2024
Class:
2005

Jay Johnson was a four-year letterwinner in baseball who received several written endorsements from players, coaches and staff over the past year. One of his former teammates summed up a lot of the consensus sentiments on the former Xavier captain: "To begin, Jay exemplifies what it means to be a true teammate. During our time together at Xavier, he embodied Musketeer pride by encouraging others to be their best both on and off the field. Jay was the player that strived to make himself better when no one else was looking in order to get the most out of his abilities and teammates. He was positive and encouraging, yet firm and constructive and knew how to motivate those around him. His passion for the game and his investment in Xavier University spread through the team, fans, and coaching staff alike... Jay was a natural leader."

Jay Johnson is currently ranked eighth all-time in games played at Xavier with 215 and ended his career as the Xavier all-time hits leader with 258 hits in 760 at bats, giving him a career batting average of .340, ranking ninth. His 258 hits still ranks first all-time. He was XU's offensive leader in his senior campaign, leading the team in 14 offensive categories. In the 2005 season, he also fielded at a .986 clip with five outfield assists. He graduated in the top 10 all-time for XU in seven categories including sixth with 760 at bats, 10th with 136 runs, fourth with doubles at 44 and ninth with 55 stolen bases.

Johnson received several awards over his career including Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team in 2004 and 2005, second team in 2003, and 2002 Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year. He was also recognized as an Academic All-Conference member in 2004 and 2005. He was a Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American (2002) and Louisville Slugger National Player of the week (March 2002). His standout freshman year included being part of a combined no-hitter where he tossed six perfect innings of relief against Rhode Island on March 24, 2002.

Johnson was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 13th round in the 2005 MLB Draft.