A Mississippi native, Deuce Jenkins has extensive experience with MLB Develops and USA Baseball and recently participated in his third consecutive DREAM Series. Jenkins is primed to have a stellar senior campaign, as he led his school in numerous statistical categories last season including ERA (1.77) and home runs (5). As the weekend came to a close, Jenkins reflected on his journey through the pipeline, learning from those who came before him, and the opportunity to grow as a player and person during these camps.

“These camps have definitely helped me develop as a player, especially being around competition like this,” said Jenkins. “The coaches and staff aren’t afraid to give me criticism, which drives me to be better. Meanwhile personality and character-wise, it’s meaningful to be connecting with people that look like you.”

Jenkins’ development goes beyond the intangibles, as the baseball numbers also testify to his work ethic. Across numerous PDP tests and metrics collected from Rapsodo – technology that provides real-time access to metrics such as launch angle and exit velocity – Jenkins consistently placed in the top five of all athletes, including the hardest hit ball over the weekend with an exit velocity of 107.9 miles per hour and the strongest average grip strength (182 pounds). His success is a direct result of Jenkins consciously taking advantage of his PDP player performance report.

“One thing I try to do with the metrics is to always make it better, even if it’s just by a fraction of a percent, I’m always trying to get better,” said Jenkins. “I take it really seriously when it comes to training; like grip strength, I’m trying to get to 205 [pounds] on my grip strength by next year to help with my bat speed.”

That commitment has paid off with a pledge to one of the top Division I programs in the country, Mississippi State. Jenkins noted the expectations set by himself along with others serves as motivation for him to keep going.

“I’m really excited but nervous,” said Jenkins. “It’s my parents’ alma mater and my dad played football there. Everybody expects a lot out of me, and I have a lot to look up to, but I’m focused on creating my own journey and making a statement. It’s a well-oriented staff, so hopefully you’re looking at a future College World Series national champion.”