Utility Man, Orchard joins Coaching Staff
The Ontario Blue Jays are pleased to announce the addition of Zac Orchard to the OBJ Coaching Staff. Zac will jump into a coaching role similar to the one he played in, as a utility man. During Zac's playing career he played all nine positions on the field and will look to contribute all over the field for the Ontario Blue Jays.
Orchard played for the Ontario Blue Jays from 2012-2015 mainly as a catcher before transitioning into a utility player as he progressed through the program. Zac is an outstanding athlete who had both the athletic ability and talent to play all over the field to help every team he played for. Orchard graduated OBJ to attend Florida Gulf Coast University (NCAA D1) in Fort Myers, Florida where he played in both years he attended including hitting .267 over 25 Games in his sophomore year. After his sophomore season, Zac made the choice to transfer to Florida Tech University (NCAA D2) where he became the starting catcher in his Senior season, playing in all 42 games for the Panthers and hit .280 with 2 Home Runs and 22 RBIs.
On the hiring of Orchard, Director of Player Development Kyle DeGrace said, "I'm extremely excited with the addition of Orch to our program. I had the pleasure of coaching him during my first go around with the Ontario Blue Jays. Orch is going to bring an energy and work ethic that you can't teach. His versatility as a player is going translate to his coaching qualities as he will work with our Catchers, Outfielders, and Infielders. Most importantly he is an alumnus of our program and it is always extra special when former players want to give back to the next generation of players."
In addition to his collegiate career, Zac plays in the Intercounty Baseball League for the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 2017, Zac was named the IBL Rookie of the Year after hitting .456 with 4 Doubles, a Triple, 4 Home Runs and 20 RBIs. He continues his IBL Career with the Toronto Maple Leafs to this day.
Orchard will provide the Ontario Blue Jays players with a variety of tools to succeed at the next level and his wealth of experience will no doubt impact many players throughout the organization. Well back, Zac!