The Toronto Blue Jays tapped into one of Mississippi’s brightest baseball talents on Draft Day, selecting JoJo Parker eighth overall. His addition is seen as a massive win for Toronto’s farm system and a step toward securing future All-Star caliber talent.
Parker made his name at Purvis High School, where he set records and established himself as the school’s highest draft selection ever. His skillset stood out across the country, catching the eyes of scouts from all MLB organizations.
He was a powerhouse this past season, hitting .489 along with 13 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 64 runs. A true five-tool player, Parker also stole 30 bases, combining speed and smart baserunning to elevate his team.
As a pitcher, he showcased his arm talent with an 8-2 record, 2.77 ERA, and 89 strikeouts in 55.2 innings. His versatility adds greater depth to the Blue Jays’ future lineup, whether he’s developed as a shortstop or a two-way talent.