The top of the 2023 MLB Draft is set to be dominated by the college kids, including Grand Canyon shortstop Jacob Wilson. The 20-year-old has been ranked as one of the best 2023 prospects by a number of different outlets — and for good season. Let’s take a closer look at the young shortstop.
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A Look at Wilson
So far, Grand Canyon shortstop Jacob Wilson has been as advertised in the early stretch of the 2023 NCAA season. The son of former Pirates shortstop Jack Wilson, Wilson (as of March 12) currently leads his team with a .439 batting average over 15 games, and has hit nine extra base hits and 12 RBIs.
While he does have just one home run on the season, the star shortstop has shown a penchant for hitting the long ball. Last season with GCU, Wilson hit 12 home runs.
A very impressive hitter at the plate, Wilson can effortlessly drive the ball and punish mistakes. Not to mention, he does a strong job of staying back when needed, allowing him to make use of all fields.
Wilson may not get the kind of hype of other prospects like Jacob Gonzalez, Dylan Crews, or Enrique Bradfield Jr. — all of whom play in elite conferences. However, baseball fans who are looking for the next wave of talent should keep a close eye on Grand Canyon, a school that’s becoming a rising power in the NCAA, and Wilson.
What it Means
Wilson is a bit on the wiry end of the spectrum, which could lead one to wonder as to whether the Grand Canyon star could be poised to a move to third at some point should he add some extra weight. The 20-year-old should be to handle that position from an arm strength point of view, should he need to move off short at some point.
A strong hitter with great bat-to-ball skills, good discipline, and good athleticism, it’s hard at this point not to envision Jacob Wilson as a top ten pick come July.
