The Secret to Jacob Wilson’s Success: Fortnite and a Discipline Forged at Home
In the world of baseball, where genetics and dedication are key, Jacob Wilson, the young and talented shortstop for the Athletics, has revealed a secret ingredient for his success: the video game Fortnite. With a batting average of .347 and a possible invitation to the All-Star Game, Wilson attributes part of his performance to the strategy and quick decision-making he develops in the game.Wilson, a player who avoids strikeouts as often as Tony Gwynn did, spends time in his living room, in front of a PC and a controller, immersing himself in Fortnite. The game, with millions of daily players, helps him hone his reaction and strategy skills, essential skills in baseball. His teammate, Max Muncy, also recognizes Wilson’s skills in Fortnite, recalling their clashes from high school. Wilson’s father, Jack Wilson, a former Major League player, also sees the value in video games for hand-eye coordination, as long as they are complemented by work on the field. Wilson’s success is not solely due to Fortnite. His training at home, on a customized baseball field, was fundamental. There, he learned to emulate and differentiate himself from his father, Jack Wilson, who valued repetition and dedication. To perfect his swing, Wilson was inspired by players like Miguel Cabrera, Mike Trout, and Albert Pujols. During his adolescence, he practiced with a smaller barrel bat, which allowed him to develop a special skill. This technique led him to not strike out in his last year of high school and continued that streak in college. Wilson, drafted by the Athletics in the 2023 draft, debuted in the Major Leagues in record time. His focus on contact and batting average, rather than strikeouts, distinguishes him in a world dominated by power and exit velocity. Currently, Wilson bats first or second in the batting order since May 7th. His strikeout rate is low, and he has hit nine home runs. Compared to José Ramírez, Wilson has become an example of a hitter who avoids strikeouts and seeks contact. Nick Kurtz, Wilson’s teammate, highlights his ability to connect with the ball in difficult situations. Wilson, for his part, focuses on avoiding strikeouts and maintaining a high batting average. Wilson’s mentality, his ability to put the ball in play, and his focus on training have made him a key piece for the Athletics. With a promising offensive core and a team on its way to Las Vegas in 2028, the future of baseball looks bright. Wilson has no plans to quit Fortnite, considering it an integral part of his training. For him, victories in the game translate into victories on the field.“I think it prepares me for the game, because when you’re in the batter’s box, you have to process a lot. There are days when I wake up, play video games, and then go to the field, and I have a good day”.
Jacob Wilson
