Jackson Cotton’s announcement press conference was a special day for Jackson, the Cotton family, Future All-Stars Baseball, and Bo Porter Academy. Surrounded by family, friends and teammates Jackson announced his verbal commitment to attend Texas A&M after he graduates High School in 2025.
Join us all in congratulating Jackson Cotton and the Cotton family on this enormous accomplishment. Below is a write-up about Jackson from Ryan Brauninger, an Analyst & Staff Writer for TexAgs.
Ryan Brauninger
Staff
7:40p, 5/18/22
Jim Schlossnagle and Nolan Cain are wasting no time in getting a jump on the top talent in the class of 2025. Earlier this evening, standout LHP/OF Jackson Cotton made his verbal commitment to Texas A&M at a ceremony surrounded by friends and family.
Last season, Cotton played at Bellaire Episcopal. However, he will be moving to the newly formed Bo Porter Baseball Academy next year to finish his final years of high school eligibility.
Jackson has great bloodlines. His father, John Cotton, played at Angelina College and was drafted by Cleveland in 1989. He played a decade of minor league ball before getting the call to be the first baseman on the USA Olympic Gold Medal team in 2000 that was managed by Tommy LaSorda. He was also scouted at one point by former Aggie baseball coach Tom Chandler.
You can see those genetics in Jackson. The sophomore-to-be has already shown enormous potential both on the mound, in the outfield, and at the plate.
As a hitter, Cotton’s swing reminds me a little of a young Jason Heyward. Although the load and triggers are more pronounced, his set up, bat path, and explosiveness do mimic those of the long time big leaguer. He generates a ton of whip with a clean plane which results in loud contact to all parts of the field. He’s a plus runner with natural base running instincts, as well. It’s pretty easy to see his natural athletic traits come out in the box.
On the mound, he’s not as polished but has been up to 83 mph with the fastball. That’s a pretty good number considering how much more mass and strength he’s going to add.
All things considered, this is another impressive young addition by the A&M coaching staff. Cotton was already drawing major attention from the major college programs in the state and in the region. His upside is through the roof. I know 2025 is a long ways off, but this kid checks all the boxes early on.