Built Greenville into a baseball powerhouse

Guest writer

Jay Jackson

Retired MLB pitcher after 17 years in the pros.

Greenville native

The way to generate more interest in baseball in Greenville, SC, is through visibility, access, and consistent community investment.

Greenville already produces great baseball talent, so the foundation is solidly established. The next step is creating more opportunities for young players and families to see that baseball has a real future in this area. That can be achieved through more youth clinics, inclusive mentorship, more frequent school visits, ubiquitous camps, stronger local media coverage, and more storytelling from athletes, coaches, and programs already doing great work in the community.

I also believe bringing Furman baseball back would be a major step in the right direction. Having another strong local college program would create more energy for the sport, furnishing examples children can see and touch, inspiring and galvanizing them amidst a vibrant culture.

I played baseball for Furman University from 2006 to 2008. During that time as a right-handed pitcher, I developed into an MLB draft prospect, culminating in a 9-2 record and a 3.17 ERA in my final season (2008) before being drafted by the Chicago Cubs.

Aspiring and practicing athletes need metrics to chart their mental and physical development. That’s why I built The S.M.I.L.E. Zone, to give athletes mentorship, mindset development, and reliable guidance. I believe pairing community baseball efforts with strong mentorship and intentional development can help build lasting interest and outstanding results, not just temporary excitement.

Visit Instagram at @jaxland58 or  @smile_zoneapp and click the link in the bio to find intake forms or sign up.

I’d love to continue this conversation and help anyway I can.