July 21, 2011
Justin Jackson, the 45th overall pick in the 2007 MLB Draft, was drafted as a shortstop out of TC Roberson High School. He signed with the Blue Jays on July 7, 2007 for a $675 000 bonus, according to Baseball Cube. When he was draft he was known for his strong throwing arm, was clocked as high as 93MPH. He has made a transfer to the outfield this year which will better utilize his speed and the plus throwing arm. The current New Hampshire Fisher Cat has been bouncing between Dunedin and New Hampshire enjoying a break out offensively.
Back in 2007 when you were drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays what was that whole experience like?
Justin Jackson: One the most exciting times of my life, really excited to start the next chapter of my career!
Who are your greatest influences in the game of baseball?
Justin Jackson: My father played professionally for over 12 years so definitely having him to coach me along and help me hone my skills was a blessing.
Who was your favourite team growing up? Who was your favourite player to watch?
Justin Jackson: I’m just a huge baseball fan so I never really had a team just followed my fav players….Derek jeter has always been my favorite.
What has been your favourite moment in your Pro Career?
Justin Jackson: Last season I had a walk off hit on the fourth of July where the ball bounced over second basemen’s head!! One of my luckiest knocks ever but it was in Front of 12,ooo people a lot of energy in the stadium!!
How do you feel that your season is going?
Justin Jackson: It’s going well been working hard and it’s starting to pay off, a lot work to still be done! It’s not how you start but how you finish!
Could you describe the type of game that you play for the fans?
Justin Jackson: Try to be the spark of the offense, get on base, get in scoring positions and let the big boys drive me in! Along with playin solid D.
With being selected to the All-Star game for the FSL, what was that experience like?
Justin Jackson: Just like I said before hard work paying off, but there’s so much more to do, never get complacent.
In terms of developing as a player, what are your goals for the rest of this season and potentially further on? What kinds of improvements might you want to make?
Justin Jackson: To continue to improve in all aspects of the game and to take myself to the next level not only physically but mentally as well.
As we all know, baseball players are superstitious, do you have any superstitions?
Justin Jackson: I try to stay away from any superstitions, I’m sure I have some habits that I do like walk up to the plate slow jump across the line when running on to the field!!
Jays Prospects would like to thank Justin for his time in doing this interview and wish him the best of luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to follow him on Twitter.