40 Facts About Jack Leiter

Early Life and High School

Jack Leiter's journey to becoming a professional baseball pitcher began in Summit, New Jersey. His early years were filled with promise and dedication to the sport.

1. Jack Thomas Leiter was born on April 21, 2000, in Summit, New Jersey.
2. He attended Delbarton School in Morristown, New Jersey, where he played baseball.
3. At Delbarton, he was teammates with Anthony Volpe, another first-round draft pick in the 2021 MLB draft.
4. In July 2018, Jack participated in the Under Armour All-America Baseball Game, showcasing his skills on a national stage.
5. He played for the USA Baseball 18U National Team in Panama City during the 2018 COPABE Pan-American Championships, helping Team USA win a gold medal.
6. As a senior at Delbarton in 2019, Jack was named the Gatorade Player of the Year for New Jersey, boasting a 6–0 record with a 0.54 ERA and a .364 batting average.

College Career at Vanderbilt

Jack Leiter chose to further his baseball career and education at Vanderbilt University, a decision that would shape his future in significant ways.

7. Despite being a top prospect for the 2019 MLB draft, Jack chose to attend Vanderbilt University.
8. The New York Yankees selected him in the 20th round of the 2019 draft, but he did not sign.
9. In his college debut on February 18, 2020, he pitched five no-hit innings with 12 strikeouts, earning the SEC Co-Freshman of the Week award.
10. The 2020 college baseball season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Jack still managed a 2–0 record with a 1.92 ERA and 22 strikeouts over 15.2 innings.
11. Returning as a redshirt freshman in 2021, Jack became a key member of Vanderbilt's starting rotation.
12. On March 20, 2021, he pitched a no-hitter in his SEC debut against South Carolina, striking out 16 batters.
13. He followed this with seven no-hit innings against Missouri, further proving his dominance.
14. Jack was named the SEC Newcomer of the Year in 2021.
15. He was also a consensus first-team All-American.
16. In the 2021 College World Series, Jack helped lead Vanderbilt to the finals and was named to the All-Tournament team.
17. He ended the 2021 season with an 11–4 record, a 2.13 ERA, and 179 strikeouts over 110 innings.
18. Jack was named the Baseball America 2021 Freshman of the Year.

Draft and Minor League Journey

Jack's transition from college baseball to the professional leagues was marked by significant milestones and challenges.

19. The Texas Rangers selected Jack with the second overall pick in the 2021 MLB draft.
20. He signed with the Rangers on July 28, 2021, receiving a $7.92 million signing bonus.
21. Jack chose to return to Vanderbilt to continue his college coursework despite not appearing in a professional game in 2021.
22. He made his professional debut on April 9, 2022, with the Frisco RoughRiders of the Double-A Texas League, pitching three innings, allowing one run, and striking out seven batters.
23. In 2022, Jack was selected to represent the Rangers at the All-Star Futures Game.
24. Despite an impressive debut, he faced challenges in the minor leagues, going 3–10 with a 5.54 ERA in 23 games (22 starts) with Frisco in 2022.
25. He split the 2022 season between Frisco and Round Rock, finishing with a 2–6 record and a 5.19 ERA over 85 innings.
26. In 2023, Jack returned to Round Rock to begin the season, struggling initially and spending almost two months out of game action on the development list.
27. He eventually returned to the mound, finishing the 2023 season with a 2–6 record and a 5.06 ERA over 81+1⁄3 innings.

Major League Debut

Jack's hard work and perseverance paid off when he finally made his major league debut.

28. On April 18, 2024, the Texas Rangers promoted Jack to make his major league debut against the Detroit Tigers.
29. In his debut game, he allowed eight hits and seven earned runs with three strikeouts in 3+2⁄3 innings, earning a no decision as the Rangers won 9–7.
30. Jack's father, Al Leiter, a former MLB pitcher, was present at his debut, watching proudly from the stands.
31. The Leiter family became the first brothers in MLB history to have sons who made it to the majors, with Jack's uncle Mark Leiter and cousin Mark Leiter Jr. also having played in MLB.

Personal Achievements and Legacy

Beyond his professional career, Jack has also made significant strides in his personal life and education.

32. Jack graduated from Vanderbilt University in December 2023 with a degree in human and organizational development.
33. His father, Al Leiter, has been instrumental in his development as a pitcher, teaching him mental toughness and composure on the mound.
34. Bruce Shatel, Jack’s high school coach, praised his exceptional work ethic and leadership qualities.
35. Jack's experience with USA Baseball, including playing for the 18U National Team, further honed his skills.
36. Despite throwing in the upper-80s during high school, Jack's fastball velocity increased significantly by the time he arrived at Vanderbilt, reaching up to 97 mph.
37. His mental toughness has been a key factor in his success, allowing him to perform under pressure and maintain composure in critical situations.
38. Jack's performance in the 2021 College World Series was impressive, helping lead Vanderbilt to the finals and earning a spot on the All-Tournament team.
39. In his minor league career, Jack has shown significant improvement, pitching 14+1⁄3 innings this season with 25 strikeouts and three walks.
40. With his impressive performance in the minor leagues and successful major league debut, Jack is poised for a bright future in professional baseball.

Jack Leiter: A Rising Star

Jack Leiter's journey from high school standout to major league pitcher is nothing short of impressive. Raised in Summit, New Jersey, and honed at Vanderbilt University, Jack's talent and dedication have set him apart. His college career was marked by standout performances, including a no-hitter in his SEC debut. Drafted second overall by the Texas Rangers in 2021, Jack's professional career has seen its share of challenges, but his resilience shines through. His major league debut in April 2024, though tough, showcased his potential. With a strong family legacy in baseball, a degree from Vanderbilt, and a promising start in the majors, Jack Leiter is poised for a bright future. Fans and scouts alike are eager to see what this talented young pitcher will achieve next. Jack's story is a testament to hard work, talent, and the enduring legacy of the Leiter family in baseball.