MLB rookie credits popular video game for early success

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Athletics’ rookie shortstop Jacob Wilson has taken the big leagues by storm.

Wilson, 23, has a .347 batting average and nine home runs in 76 games this season. The shortstop’s batting average is second in MLB behind New York Yankees superstar Aaron Judge (.361) and has the second lowest strikeout-rate in baseball at 6.8%.

The rising star said he believes that one of the key factors to his success is the video game, Fortnite.

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Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson, #5, before the game against the Houston Astros at Sutter Health Park on June 17, 2025 in West Sacramento, California. (Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images)

"Kids are going to love this one. Parents are going to hate me. I am a big believer in video games," Wilson told ESPN. 

"It's fast decision-making strategy. I think that gets me ready for the game, because when you're in the box, you have to process a lot."

Wilson credits the video game for helping him train his decision-making. 

"There's some days where I'll wake up, and I'll play video games, and then I'll go to the field, and I'll have a good day. Some days I won't play and don't see the ball well. I think it really helps me train kind of the decision-making that I have to make six, seven hours later at the baseball field," Wilson said. 

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Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson, #5, throws the ball to first base for an out during the ninth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Sutter Health Park on June 20, 2025 in West Sacramento, California. (Sergio Estrada-Imagn ImagesSergio