Jackson, Vitters Get the Call
This past Sunday the Chicago Cubs promoted former Baseball Factory standouts Brett Jackson and Josh Vitters to their 25-man roster. The call-up marks the Major League debut for both of these young prospects. A California native, Jackson was drafted 31st overall in the 2009 June Amateur Draft out of UC-Berkley. Also a product of California, Vitters was selected in the 1st round of the 2007 Draft.
Jackson had a debut to remember on Sunday, going 2 for 4 with a pair of singles and a walk against the Los Angeles Dodgers. After a successful two years in the Minor Leagues, Jackson was ready for the call-up. Prior to his achievement at the minor league level, Jackson starred at UC- Berkley and his high school in Orinda, CA. Our scouts first saw Brett at a National Tryout in 2004. His skills stood out and he went on to be selected to a Team One Showcase and the Under Armour Pre-Season All America Tournament in 2005.
Vitters got his chance in the seventh inning with a pinch hit opportunity. Though he flied out to left, the moment is one he won’t soon forget. The third baseman has worked through the Cubs’ minor league system over the past three years before getting the call to the big club. Over the course of his minor league career, he’s consistently ranked in Baseball America’s Top 100 Prospects. Selected by the Cubs out of high school, Vitters was a standout high school prospect. In 2006, he took part in the Cape Cod High School Classic, powered by Baseball Factory, an all-star game which showcased the top high school players from across the country. The Classic, now the Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory, served as a launching pad to Vitters’ professional career.
We’d like to congratulate Brett and Josh on making their respective Major League Debut’s this past Sunday. We wish them continued success and look forward to watching them continue to Build Their Way to Greatness at the next level!
This year will mark the fifth straight year of the Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory and will be played at Jackson and Vitters’ new home, Wrigley Field. The game will be shown live on the MLB Network on August 18th at 12:35PM CST. For more information, visit the official web site of the Under Armour All-America Game: http://www.baseballfactory.com/allamerica/2012/