Louisiana State is renowned for producing major league pitchers, including 2023 top overall pick Paul Skenes and longtime big league starters Kevin Gausman and Aaron Nola.
Those three were all first-round picks. The Athletics harbor high hopes for a different former LSU Tiger: 2024 second-rounder Gage Jump.
The 22-year-old lefthander is one of the fastest risers among pitching prospects and represented the organization at the Futures Game, along with third baseman Tommy White, himself another LSU product.
Jump’s velocity, which has touched 97 mph, and movement make him one of the more impressive arms, with a deceptive delivery on his low release point. He also throws a nasty curveball to play off his fastball.
The organization’s No. 1 prospect was promoted to Double-A Midland in May after dominating in six appearances for High-A Lansing. Overall, Jump had recorded a 2.16 ERA through 83.1 innings to go with 103 strikeouts and 25 walks.
“I think one thing with Gage is he’s got a great pedigree of stuff,” A’s pitching coach Scott Emerson said. “He mixes his pitches well. He’s got electric stuff.
“It’s the reason why our organization, I think, identified him in the draft as a good, solid lefthanded pitcher with a bright future. I’m really happy for him to get the opportunity to pitch in the Futures Game, and I’m going to be excited for him when he gets up here to the big leagues.”
Emerson said Jump has done a great job of using his entire arsenal and of working on those pitches in the minors.
“It’s his first full season, too,” Emerson said. “I think it’s a remarkable job for him to get to Double-A.”
Pitching in the SEC also helped Jump prepare for pro ball.
“If you pitch well in that league in general, you deserve an opportunity for professional baseball and can advance in your career,” Emerson added.