Where Are They Now? John Morris

John Morris is unequivocally one of the most prolific players ever to grace the diamond for a storied Seton Hall baseball program. Though his collegiate career spanned only three seasons and came to an end over 20 years ago, Morris’ name remains littered throughout the school record book where he still ranks second in career triples (16) and batting average (.418), and third in home runs (28). In 1982, his final season in a Seton Hall uniform, Morris put together arguably the finest season a Pirate has ever had at the plate, standing among the top-five in school history in eight different major offensive categories to this day.

That spring, the Kansas City Royals selected him 10^th overall in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft,  making him the third Pirate ever selected in the top-10. Morris went on to enjoy a seven-year major league career as an outfielder with the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies and the then California Angels, highlighted by an appearance in the 1987 World Series. He later returned to Seton Hall and finished his degree in Political Science and Government.

After spending over a decade in player development for the Angels and Phillies, Morris now serves as a Professional Scout and a Special Assistant to the General Manager for the reigning National League Central Division Champion Cincinnati Reds.

Recently, the Seton Hall great took some time to answer a few questions for SHUPirates.com as we continue our “Where Are They Now?” series.

Q: Where do you live now and what are you up to these days?

Morris: I live in New Canaan, Conn. with my wife and two step-children. I have spent the past seven years in the Professional Scouting Department for the Cincinnati Reds. I am currently a Special Assistant to the General Manager with a wide range of scouting responsibilities both domestically and internationally.

Q: What is your favorite memory as a Pirate?

Morris: My favorite baseball memories while playing at Seton Hall University revolve around the numerous baseball and life lessons I learned from our coaching staff. Head Coach Mike Sheppard Sr. taught me the benefits of mental focus, discipline and how to stand up to adversity. Coach Ed Blankmeyer taught me so much about defense and the nuances of running the bases correctly. Fred Hopke was our hitting coach and he was simply the best in the business! I also have great memories of how the faculty in the Political Science Department guided me towards obtaining my degree after taking 10 years off from school to pursue my dream of playing professional baseball. I am forever grateful to all of them.

Q: Do you still keep in touch with any of your former teammates and if so, who?

Morris: Pat Pacillo was a teammate of mine at Seton Hall University for one season. We became great friends and continue to stay in regular contact at Seton Hall outings several times every year. Current Associate Head Coach/ Pitching Coach Phil Cundari is also a very dear friend. I have also known the entire Sheppard family for over 30 years. They are all fantastic people.

Q: Do you still follow the Pirates and what are your thoughts on the program today?

Morris: I am optimistic about the direction of the baseball program for several reasons. The baseball program has had a nice run over the past few seasons as Coach Rob Sheppard and his staff continues to do a great job recruiting and developing exceptional student/athletes. The new baseball field is outstanding and I’m hopeful it will continue to be an effective recruiting tool. And with the advances in technology it has become easy and enjoyable to follow Seton Hall baseball games over the internet or using the SHU Pirates app. on my IPhone. Staying connected to the team and the players has never been easier.

Q: I notice you are a Pirate Blue member, thank you for your support.  Why do you support Pirate Blue and why do you think it's important to give back?

Morris: Why do I support Pirate Blue? Quite simply it’s the right thing to do. I have always tried to live my life with an attitude of gratitude. And yes, I am extremely grateful for my time as a student-athlete while at Seton Hall University. Always have been, and always will be!

Check back soon to see if one of your favorite former Pirates is the subject of our next installment of "Where Are They Now?"

Previous Where Are They Now? Interviews

December 12, 2012