There aren't many high school baseball players who can consistently pitch and play the field at a high level. By the time athletes reach high school—and certainly college—they're often asked to choose one path. But Buchholz High School senior JJ Gardner isn't one of those typical players.
Gardner has emerged as a true two-way standout for the Bobcats this season, excelling both on the mound and at the plate. His performance has been instrumental in leading Buchholz to its best record in school history. With a 6-0 record on the mound and better than a .400 batting average at the plate, he has been named this week's UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week.
"I just love being on the field, and fortunately I've worked hard enough over the years to be able to do both," Gardner said. "I want the opportunity to play every day. Whether I ball out on the mound or get a few hits to help us win—it doesn't matter, as long as I'm contributing."
Gardner began playing baseball at age 5, when his father, Paul, first put a ball in his hand. Over the years, with guidance from local coaches, trainers, and strength staff—including Gatorball instructors and Buchholz head coach Ron Brooks—Gardner has developed into a dominant player on both sides of the ball.
"From the Gatorball guys to the strength coaches and trainers, Coach Brooks here at Buchholz, and so many others—I've learned from some of the best in the area," Gardner said. "I want to show up every day and prove that their time and effort weren't wasted. I'm going to go all out every time I step over that white line."
Buchholz has enjoyed a historic season, winning its district championship for the third straight year and finished the regular season 24-1. The Bobcats are now aiming to return to the FHSAA state finals for a second consecutive season. Last year, Gardner helped lead the team to its first-ever final four appearance, but they fell short in the championship game.
"We still have a bad taste in our mouths from not winning it last year, so this season has been about getting back to that spot," Gardner said. "Getting there was amazing—we want to get back and win it."
Gardner played a key role in the Bobcats' first-round regional playoff victory, belting two home runs to propel Buchholz to this week's semifinal round. His impact as a two-way player has been felt throughout his career. In last year's regional final, he hit a game-winning two-run homer, and earlier this season, he tossed a complete-game two-hitter with nine strikeouts against one of Tennessee's top high school teams during a spring break tournament.
"I just love playing with all of these guys," Gardner said. "It's a bunch of dudes I've been suiting up with since Little League. I call it a brotherhood. We all have each other's backs on the field, and we play so well together—it's awesome to be a part of this club."
After graduation, Gardner will continue his baseball career at Jacksonville University. A Gainesville native, he said he's excited for the next chapter, even though it means leaving home.
"I'm going to miss my family and friends, but I know they'll still be there to support me in Jacksonville," Gardner said. "It's a place where I can go in and compete and try to get on the field as a freshman. I really liked the staff and the dynamics of the program."
For now, Gardner remains focused on the goal he and his teammates set at the start of the season: return to the state finals—and this time, bring home the school's first baseball state championship.
Each weekly winner of the UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week award is eligible for a $2,500 scholarship. The UF Health High School Athlete of the Year will be announced at the end of the 2024–25 academic year.