The question remains: Can Wilson and the Athletics coaching staff discover the best way to utilize one of the better contact tools we’ve seen and squeeze a little more power (say, five or more homers) from him? I don’t know, but I do believe Wilson has the tools to put the rest of the league on notice.
Jacob Wilson: Breakout Candidate
Hitting Presence
The first major league at-bat may be the toughest one of any hitter’s career. It’s a dream that has been on repeat in his head since his first day of grade school. Perhaps the combination of nerves and uncontrollable excitement makes it seem almost impossible to even get the bat off his shoulder.
Yet, none of that would be relatable for the A’s number one prospect, who zipped his first MLB hit on the second pitch he saw.
I think I’ve established Jacob Wilson’s basic skillset with the bat, so I want to dig a little deeper.
What makes a great hitter into an elite hitter, to me, is mentality. Anyone can develop skills, build muscle and improve talent through training, but the mental side of the game is what separates great from elite.
Let me ask you this: What’s more terrifying for a pitcher than a hitter who thrives at making contact? A confident, comfortable hitter at the plate, who can make contact. Doesn’t matter the count, situation, or pressure they’re faced with. Pick any elite hitter at the dish and watch their ABs, they are cool, calm and collected in the box.