Yusef Davis Jr. – Speed, Power, and Purpose in the Outfield
At 30 years old, Yusef Davis Jr. is entering the 2025 season as a key outfielder for Bear Creek Express, bringing with him a lethal mix of speed, power, and leadership. After playing for San Antonio Glow Worm in 2024, Yusef joins a new chapter with Bear Creek, aiming to be the spark at the top of the lineup—and a threat every time he steps on the basepaths.
Late Start, Fast Rise
Yusef’s journey into fastpitch began later than most. “I started in late 2015,” he says. “My dad got me into a league in Whittier, California, and I took a liking to it right away.” The intensity, speed, and chess-like quality of fastpitch instantly hooked him.
Growing up in Long Beach, CA, Yusef looked up to fastpitch veterans like Kevin Castillo and Lumar Goss, both of whom inspired him through their leadership and talent. "They’ve helped mold me into the player I am today,” he explains.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Transitioning from baseball to fastpitch wasn’t easy. “Hitting consistently was tough—especially against guys like Folkard, Cleary, and Kirkpatrick. I started out as a slapper just to make contact, then adjusted over time.”
He credits those challenges with shaping his current approach: “Now, it’s all about getting on base and causing problems. My goal this season is consistency—be a spark plug and produce every game.”
The ISC Experience
Playing in the ISC World Tournament has become one of the biggest honors in Yusef’s career. “It’s everything to me,” he says. “It allows me to fulfill my competitive nature and make lifelong connections.”
His most memorable moment? “Last year, we were down 2-0 and I hit a grand slam in the first round. That was a rush I’ll never forget.” He also fondly remembers being named to the ISC All-World 2nd Team Outfield in 2018.
Training with Intention
Yusef’s training is year-round and highly structured:
- Mobility strength training
- Hitting off a tee
- Core-focused workouts
- Watching old games to analyze pitch grips and sequences
“I don’t just train to play—I train to win. I want to be prepared for everything I might face.”
His favorite quote comes from his father:
“Don’t practice until you get it right—practice until you can’t get it wrong.”
Mental Game and Mindset
Before every game? A Snickers bar and blue cherry Gatorade. Then, it’s all about grounding himself mentally.
“I remind myself this is just a game—and I’m lucky to play it at this level. That perspective helps me stay locked in and grateful for the opportunity.”
Looking to the Future
Yusef sees fastpitch trending upward, but wants more global exposure. “We need better promotion, more high-quality media, and stronger athlete involvement in marketing the game. That’s how we grow the sport.”
He hopes to one day see fastpitch on a global broadcast stage—reaching more fans, especially young athletes who never knew it existed. Yusef adds “Luciano and his team from Softball Premier TV have come into the sport over the years and really promoted and grew the exposure and the coverage they give our great sport is amazing. I believe it’s up to us the athletes to also step up and create more exposure and bring awareness to this sport to help it grow and thrive for the future.”
Advice to Young Players
For young players chasing the ISC dream, Yusef offers this:
“Ground yourself in the moment. Don’t make it bigger than it is. If you put in the work, you’ll be ready. I never imagined a kid from the east side of Long Beach would be playing on the world stage. Fastpitch changed my life. Play with honor, play with passion—and always have fun.”
Follow Yusef Davis Jr.
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Hometown: Long Beach, California
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Team: Bear Creek Express
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Instagram: @yd.thegoat
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Facebook: Yusef Davis Jr.
- ๐ผ Profession: Environmental Health & Safety Manager
