Rangers rival rookie credits stunning inspiration for red-hot career start

While the Texas Rangers are trying to get back into the playoff race, the Athletics are one team Bruce Bochy’s squad doesn’t really have to worry about in the standings. Of course, because they’ll play the A’s several more times this year, they do have to worry about rookie shortstop Jacob Wilson. They’re going to want to find any way they can to slow him down. Which apparently includes getting in the way of his Fortnite time.

You read that right. Wilson feels as though the time he spent playing the video game is at least in part a reason why he’s had so much success in his first season in the Bigs. That success includes advancing to the second round of fan voting for the MLB All-Star Game.

Rangers rival A’s rookie Jacob Wilson credits Fortnite for his focus

"Kids are going to love this one. Parents are going to hate me," The Texas Rangers rival told ESPN. "I am a big believer in video games. It's fast decision-making strategy. I think that gets me ready for the game, because when you're in the box, you have to process a lot. So there's some days where I'll wake up and I'll play video games and then I'll go to the field, and I'll have a good day. Some days I won't play and don't see the ball well. I think it really helps me train kind of the decision-making that I have to make six, seven hours later at the baseball field."

Wilson’s use of video games might not work for everyone. It’s definitely working for him.

So far this season, he’s slashing .341/.382/.477/.859 with 9 home runs and 5 stolen bases. He’s also had some success in 6 games against the Rangers, slashing  .280/.333/.280/.613.

The Texas Rangers are going to have to figure out Jacob Wilson before they take him on again. Finding a way to stop him from playing video games might help.