Congratulations to former Diablo Daniel Jackson on being selected by the Colorado Rockies as the 37th overall pick in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft.
Daniel’s 2026 season was one for the ages. He hit .379 with 32 HR, 87 RBI and 26 SB to help the the University of Georgia Bulldogs advance to the College World Series for the first time since 2008. He was the recipient of multiple postseason awards, including:
- USA Baseball Golden Spikes Award
- Dick Howser Trophy
- Buster Posey Collegiate Catcher of the Year Award
- Bobby Bragan National Collegiate Slugger Award
- D1Baseball Player of the Year
- SEC Baseball Player of the Year
When asked about Daniel, Coach Tom Bass, Daniel’s 14U coach, said “I have been coaching over 30 years and Daniel Jackson is one of a handful that stands by themselves. This is not because of having the talent rewarded so highly this year in so many ways, but because of his work ethic, kindness, love for team and family, and the respect and desire he has for those coaching him. He is a real champion.”
Coach Eric Love, Daniel’s 15U coach, added, “Daniel is the kid I tell my high school team about when I discuss work ethic. He wasn’t the most highly recruited nor was he the most talented kid in travel ball or high school baseball. He was the kid that put his head down, did things the right way, trusted the process, and became the best player he could be. I hope my son grows to have half the work ethic Daniel has. And on top of all that he is a great son, a great big brother to his sister, and a great student in the classroom.”
Daniel, a 2023 North Springs High School graduate, was a member of the 14U Gold Diablos (2018-19) and 15U Gold Diablos (2019-20).
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