July 11, 2022

COBA Major League Mourns the Loss of Jeff Jarockis

By Dan Estey

The COBA Major League is saddened to hear of the passing of longtime Oakville A's outfielder and slugger Jeff Jarockis. "J-Rock" was one of the more feared power hitters in the league but could also hit for average as well.

He won the Andy Pearce Award in 2008 as the leading home run hitter and had many other years where he was close to the top of the league in long balls as well. When he was not playing ball, Jeff was busy teaching kids his love of music at his music school in Oakville. 

Former A's catcher and teammate Matt Griffin reached out to talk about Jarockis:

"The Ontario Senior baseball community is saddened to learn of the passing of former A’s all star outfielder Jeff Jarockis.,” said Griffin of the nine-year veteran, whose playing career was highlighted by the 2008 season where he led COBA in home runs and RBIs while hitting .424 on the season.

“He was a competitor who loved being at the park and being a part of this great league. He made a memorable impression on teammates and opponents and for those who were lucky enough to get to know him well, was a thoughtful and caring person that really wanted to help others. He will be greatly missed and is undoubtedly hitting tape measure homers in a better place right now.

“Please keep “Rock” and all those who loved and cared about him in your thoughts and prayers."