W.G. Brady
Detroit Tigers Prospect Jackson Jobe Takes Lessons from PGA Dad
Before he dreamed of making it to the Major Leagues, Jackson Jobe’s earliest aspirations were in golf. At almost four years old, Jackson and his sister Brittan caddied for their father, Brandt Jobe, at the prestigious Augusta National. Dressed in white jumpsuits, they participated in a nine-hole tournament before the Masters. This moment, immortalized in a cherished photograph, remains a fond memory for Jackson, now the top prospect for the Detroit Tigers.
Early Days at Augusta National
Reflecting on that special day, Brandt Jobe recalls how young Jackson, barely big enough to carry the clubs, struggled yet participated with great enthusiasm. “Jackson was barely big enough,” Brandt reminisced, highlighting the innocence and determination of his young son.
Growing up, Jackson Jobe frequently attended tournaments with his PGA Tour-playing father, not fully grasping the significance of these experiences at the time. Looking back, he admitted, “I can’t believe I didn’t understand how cool that was… I would do anything to go watch my dad playing the Masters at this age now.”
Balancing Family and Career
Brandt and Jennifer Jobe successfully balanced their professional and family lives, providing a stable foundation for Jackson and his sister. They traveled frequently for tournaments until Jackson began kindergarten, when the family settled into a more stable lifestyle in Dallas.
During his junior year of high school, Jackson’s competitive drive surged. Fueled by intense training in baseball and football, as well as lifting weights during the COVID-19 pandemic, he declared his multifaceted professional ambitions at just 10 years old, with a primary focus on baseball.
From Aspiring Golfer to Baseball Prospect
Brandt, always supportive of Jackson’s dreams, humorously responded to his son’s ambitious plans: “I was laughing. I’m like, ‘Oh, yeah, it’s just that easy, Bud, you can do it.'” However, he soon noticed Jackson’s growing seriousness and competitiveness. By high school, Jackson’s athletic prowess had fully emerged, leading to outstanding performances on the field and in various sports.
Jackson’s junior year was particularly impressive. Boasting a 0.13 ERA and 122 strikeouts, he caught the attention of major league scouts. The Detroit Tigers selected him third overall in the 2021 Draft, a moment of immense pride for Brandt, who had once harbored baseball dreams before choosing a career in golf.
Facing Challenges in Professional Baseball
Transitioning to professional baseball came with its own set of challenges. Jackson endured a 4.96 ERA through his first 15 starts at Single-A Lakeland, testing his resolve. He embraced his father’s advice to “keep working,” and his perseverance paid off, finishing the season with a 1.90 ERA and earning a promotion to High-A West Michigan.
Despite setbacks, including lumbar spine inflammation and a hamstring injury, Jackson remains focused and committed. He embodies the mental and physical discipline learned from his father, stating, “If I continue to work hard, then everything’s gonna work itself out.”
Shared Dedication and Work Ethic
Currently, Brandt is sidelined from the PGA Champions Tour due to a hip injury. This has allowed father and son to tackle their respective recoveries together, reaffirming their shared dedication and work ethic. Brandt often attends Jackson’s minor league games, beaming with pride at his son’s achievements.
“Growing up, going to watch my dad play,” Jackson reflects. “And now the roles have reversed where he’s coming out to watch me… has been super cool.”
