Anthony Bona is a sophomore on the 2010 San Jose State University baseball team. The native of Union City, Calif. and 2008 graduate of James Logan High School has appeared as a first baseman, catcher and designated hitter for San Jose State. Anthony has made 26 appearances this season, earning 12 starts.
Anthony, who is majoring in psychology with a minor in kinesiology, is the latest guest for our occasional mini-feature, Baseball Q&A.
1. How would you rate your 2010 season to this point?
I would say it has been a growing season for not only me, but for the team as well.
2. What was going through your mind when you made your college catching debut at Wichita State last month, and how has that adjustment been?
I was thinking how much I missed catching, and the adrenaline rush from the crowd behind your back. The adjustment hasn't been too difficult for me, considering I have been a catcher before. The only difference is that now I can say I have some experience as a Division I catcher.
3. What made you decide to come to San Jose State University?
My decision to come to San Jose State wasn't too difficult, because it was a school that was close to home. My parents (Alfredo and Edna Bona) were a key influence with my decision, because they wanted a chance to be able to watch me play.
4. What are some of your favorite musical artists, movies or television shows? Do you have a favorite baseball movie?
I don't really have a whole lot of favorite musical artists. I listen to all types of music, from jazz to classical, rock to hip hop, reggae to pop. The same thing goes for movies and television shows; pretty much anything that can catch my attention, and that'll keep me wanting to come back. My favorite baseball movies have to be Major League, Major League II and Major League: Back to the Minors. Those movies are hilarious. I can never get enough of them.
5. What are some of your favorite foods? Do you have a preferred pre-game meal?
My favorite food would probably have to be sushi. At first, I thought sushi was disgusting, but I've grown to love it. Sometimes, I prefer a pre-game meal usually consisting of eggs, bacon or sausage, and hash browns. Then there's a different pre-game meal where I'll eat eggs, bacon or sausage, but instead of hash browns, I'll have rice.
6. What professional baseball team do you root for? Are there any players you admire in particular or pattern your own game after?
I don't really root for a professional baseball team. Usually, when it comes down to the World Series, I root for the team that I dislike more. I admire many professional players, some even in the Hall of Fame. One player in particular that I've always favored would be "The Big Cat," Andres Galarraga.
7. What types of things do you like to do when you are away from the diamond?
Some things that I like to do are play/make music. I like to learn new songs on either my guitar or ukulele, or make some music with my roommate, who just happens to be a music major. Spending time with my family is also something that I like to do away from the diamond, considering that days I get to spend time with them are very limited.
8. What did it mean for you to be named the Spartans' recipient of the Loyd Christopher Award at this year's Hot Stove Banquet?
It was a real honor to be named the recipient of the Loyd Christopher Award. It's a prestigious award, and I'm much honored to be able to say that I've received it, along with many other great athletes.
9. What are your expectations for this WAC Tournament?
It's going to be an interesting WAC Tournament. It's at a neutral place, so everyone will have the same opportunity to keep moving on in the tournament.
10. Any plans for the summer?
I'm going to be playing summer ball in the West Coast League with the Folsom Pioneers. It's going to be interesting, because I'll be seeing a lot of teammates in other places. For example, Tommy Gale, Esteban Guzman, John Austin and Bryson Rahier are going to play for the Humboldt Crabs, and Nick Borg, Barney Evans, Andy Hennessey and Pat Hennessey are going to be playing for the Nor-Cal Longhorns.
Bonus: If you could add one team to the Spartan schedule, who would it be and why?
If (I could add) one team to the Spartan schedule, it would probably be the University of North Carolina at the University of North Carolina.
2010 Baseball Q&A Guests
January 2 - Danny Stienstra, Junior Infielder
January 6 - Luke Mazzanti, Junior Right-Handed Pitcher
January 10 - John Austin, Junior Left-Handed Pitcher
January 30 - Esteban Guzman, Sophomore Right-Handed Pitcher
February 24 - Tyler Christian, Freshman Infielder
April 28 - Kerry Jenkins, Junior Outfielder
April 29 - Blake McFarland, Junior Right-Handed Pitcher
April 30 - Tim Quiery, Freshman Outfielder
April 30 - Chris Carrillo, Freshman Catcher
May 25 - Anthony Bona, Sophomore 1B/C
