Waukee CSD Alum Drafted to MLB

Jackson Wentworth, a 2021 graduate of Waukee High School, has been selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) draft.

Memorable Moments — Playing at WHS

Photo credit: Kelsey Kremer/The Register

While in high school, Jackson won 17 games as a starting pitcher, helped lead the Warriors to two state tournaments, and was ranked as the No. 2 right-handed pitcher in the state by Perfect Game. Jackson was named first team all-state his senior year and holds the school record in strikeouts with 216.

“I have been fortunate to coach numerous really great players, but Jackson stands out as one of the best,” says David Dirkx, head coach of the WHS baseball team. “Jackson was always one of our hardest workers. He spent numerous hours working on becoming a better pitcher and baseball player.”

Jackson credits Dirkx and his other coaches for helping set him up for success. “Dirkx definitely helped me with pitching, especially the mental side of pitching. He told me straight up what I needed to fix or work on,” Jackson says.

Hard Decision — Heading to College

Photo credit: Reece Bachta/K-State Sports

A professional team was interested in drafting Jackson immediately out of high school, but he chose to play baseball at Kansas State.

“I knew going to college was the better option for me so I could develop as a person and as a player,” Jackson explains. “And then I had Tommy John surgery while I was there, so I’m glad I went to college so I could deal with that injury instead of being on a minor league team.”

After recovering from the surgery, Jackson had to fight his way back into the bullpen and then the rotation — moving up from a closer to relief pitcher to starter. This season with the Wildcats, he had a 4.24 ERA and 115 strikeouts, the second-most in program history. He also contributed to the team’s first combined no-hitter since 1991.

The Big Day — Being Drafted

On day two of the MLB draft, Jackson was on the phone with his advisor. “My advisor said, ‘Oh wait, the Blue Jays are calling me,’ and he hung up,” Jackson explains. “So I was getting stressed out because I knew the Blue Jays’ pick was coming up. Then he texted me and said “Blue Jays. Full slot.’”

Jackson found out his TV was delayed by about 30 seconds when he started getting congratulatory texts before he even saw his name appear as the Toronto Blue Jays’ 158th pick in the fifth round of the draft.

“It was really exciting getting to experience that with my parents and my girlfriend,” he says.

“There is a huge sense of pride from people in our program for Jackson,” Dirkx adds. “Everyone that played with or coached Jackson knew that baseball was incredibly important to him. I am really happy that he is able to continue his dream of playing baseball professionally.”

As Jackson prepares for the next chapter of his journey, he looks back at where he started at Waukee High School. “The friendships I made — that’s what stands out. Even more than baseball,” he says.

Jackson also offers advice for young athletes who have dreams of playing in the pros: “Ask for help. Know that criticism is a good thing. And keep working hard.”