From cricket to conquering the diamond.
Driven by his love for the game, Oliver McJannet made a surprising transition from the wicket to the mount.
With the swing of the bat and the grip of the ball, Oliver McJannet has a passion for America’s favourite pastime sport – baseball – which has shaped his life and aspirations from a young age. Despite his initial cricket background, Oliver found his true calling in the fast-paced world of baseball, captivated by the quick change of innings and the thrill of the game.
Inspired by remarkable players like Javier Baez of the Cubs and the unparalleled skills of athletes like Stephen Curry, Oliver’s love for baseball grew stronger with each incredible play and display of finesse. His dedication to the sport led him to participate in a few inter-province tournaments, the draft league, and the esteemed Major B League, where he showcased his talent and determination.
Read more: The best of the best baseball teams battle it out at Marks Park
Having played baseball for an impressive span of 15 years, he acknowledges that sometimes it feels like he doesn’t learn something new in every game. However, he firmly believes that tough competition is the catalyst for improvement, constantly pushing him to elevate his skills and reach new heights.
For him, the pinnacle of baseball was witnessed during the Japan versus USA match in the recent World Baseball Classic, where Japan emerged victorious. The sheer intensity and passion displayed by both teams fuelled his own desire to compete at the highest level and left an indelible mark on his baseball journey.
However, he acknowledges that like any sport, baseball is not immune to the influence of hidden politics. “I recognise the potential biases that may exist among selectors for the Gauteng and South African teams. Nevertheless, I understand that such challenges are prevalent in all sports and I remain focused on overcoming them through hard work, talent, and perseverance.”
Also read: Local baseball derby
With aspirations that extend beyond South Africa’s borders, he dreams of playing overseas in countries like the USA, Australia, or Japan, where he can immerse himself in the semi-professional or professional baseball scene.
“The opportunity to experience the game at its highest levels, surrounded by players who share my passion, is a driving force that fuels my commitment and dedication.”
Baseball, for Oliver, has been more than just a sport. It has become a transformative force that has shaped his character and instilled in him the values of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship. “Through the strong male figures in the South African baseball community, I have learned how to gracefully accept victories and losses, always maintaining the correct attitude.”
While he humbly refrains from claiming to be the best, his dedication to his craft is undeniable. He diligently trains, constantly seeking inspiration and insight from professionals who generously share their knowledge on how to improve and break down their own game. He believes that introducing baseball as a sport in schools is crucial, as it opens doors for individuals who may not have considered it otherwise, leading them to discover the unique challenges and unparalleled fulfilment the sport offers.
Throughout the off-season, he eagerly awaits the opportunity to step back onto the field, fuelled by an unwavering passion that has fuelled his baseball journey. Representing the Mustangs Marks Parks team, which were once attended by friends and family, have seen a decline in viewership due to the pandemic. However, in places like Boksburg or Benoni, where multiple games occur simultaneously, more spectators gather to witness the excitement and skill of the players.
Marks Park will host numerous home games starting from June 2.
Related article: Marks Park Mustangs keeps baseball alive in Emmarentia
