In a surprising pick, the New York Yankees selected SS Core Jackson with the 162nd pick in the MLB draft. Jackson emerged as a standout middle‑infielder during his collegiate career, culminating at the University of Utah. A left-handed batter and right-handed thrower standing 6′2″ and weighing 190 lb, Jackson began his college journey at Nebraska before transferring to South Mountain Community College, then ultimately to Utah, where he completed two seasons leading the team in virtually every offensive category.

In his senior campaign (spring 2025), Jackson was a Brooks Wallace Award semifinalist, earned All‑Big 12 First Team honors, and led the conference with a .364 batting average, .445 on‑base percentage, and .641 slugging percentage. He recorded 75 hits, 19 doubles, 12 home runs, 44 RBI, 61 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases in 48 games, ranking among the Big 12 in multiple key statistics. Defensively, he anchored shortstop, leading league shortstops with 117 assists and participating in 25 double plays.

Jackson’s consistent performance earned him a Top‑10 shortstop ranking nationally by D1Baseball.com and recognition as the top MLB draft prospect from Utah.He demonstrated exceptional bat‑to‑ball skills and gap power, combined with above‑average athleticism and defensive awareness, projecting as a capable professional shortstop.

(Top Image Credit: Utah Athletics)