Hey, Kids, Want to Hit .350 in the Majors? Jacob Wilson Says Start Playing Fortnite

Jacob Wilson’s Unique Approach

Brace yourselves for an unconventional take from Jacob Wilson, a rising star in the world of baseball. At just 23, this shortstop for the Athletics boasts an impressive .347 batting average and is likely headed to the All-Star Game. While genetics and hard work play crucial roles in his success, Wilson believes there’s another factor at play: video games, specifically Fortnite.

“Kids will love this; parents might not,” he quipped. “I truly believe video games sharpen decision-making skills. When I play Fortnite before a game, I feel more prepared. Some days, I play and have a great day; other times I skip it and struggle at the plate.”

The Fortnite Connection

Yes, you read that right! One of the top hitters in Major League Baseball attributes his skills to a video game. Picture him in his living room, controller in hand, ready to take on opponents in Fortnite. His teammate Max Muncy recalls, “If you manage to eliminate him even once in a game, that’s a win!”

Wilson’s father, Jack, a former major leaguer, initially worried that gaming might distract his son from baseball. However, over the years, he recognized the benefits of video games in developing hand-eye coordination—provided that homework comes first.

Building a Better Hitter

Wilson’s journey began in his backyard, which is a baseball paradise complete with a FungoMan ground ball machine and a full-sized infield. This is where he devoted endless hours to mastering his skills. Jack Wilson guided him, emphasizing lessons learned from legends like Miguel Cabrera and Mike Trout, which have shaped Jacob’s approach to hitting.

By high school, Wilson had not struck out in an entire season. His success continued at Grand Canyon University, leading to his selection by the A’s as the sixth overall pick in the 2023 draft. With a remarkable .433 batting average in the minors, his debut in the majors was just a year after being drafted.

Future Prospects

In a league dominated by metrics like launch angle and exit velocity, Wilson aims to emulate players who prioritize contact over strikeouts. With a mere 6.8% strikeout rate, he is solidifying his reputation as a contact hitter, drawing comparisons with Cleveland’s Jose Ramirez.

As the A’s look to build a formidable lineup, Wilson stands as a key player in their future, committed to improving and proving that every bit of training—whether it’s on the field or in a virtual battle—counts toward success.

Context & Analysis

This approach underscores a trend among athletes leveraging technology to enhance performance. As video games become more integrated into training regimens, they might reshape how we view skill development in sports.