Nolan Jones

Nolan Allen Jones, born on May 7, 1998, is an exceptional talent in the world of professional baseball. He serves in the dual roles of infielder and outfielder for Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies, after starting his Major League career with the Cleveland Guardians in 2022.

Jones was born and raised in Pennsylvania, where he cultivated his love and skill for baseball. His high school career was entirely dedicated to the game, playing as a shortstop for Holy Ghost Preparatory School in the suburban neighborhood of Cornwells Heights, Bensalem, Pennsylvania. His tenure in high school was marked by noticeable breakthroughs, especially the home run he scored in his final high school at-bat, hinting at the remarkable future that lay ahead.

Primed for a college baseball career, Jones committed to the University of Virginia, a decision aligned with his ambitions. By 2016, his undeniable talent on the field led to his consideration as a top prospect for the Major League Baseball draft. Consequently, the Cleveland Indians brought him on board in the second round of the draft. Jones accepted the new challenge in stride, signing a contract complete with a $2.25 million signing bonus on July 1.

Jones’ professional career had somewhat of a rocky start as he struck out swinging in his first career at-bat for the Arizona League Indians. Regardless, he swiftly turned things around and finished his maiden professional season with a remarkable .257 batting average in 109 at-bats. The following year escalated his performance when he played for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, recording a .317 batting average alongside four home runs, 33 RBIs, and 18 doubles over 62 games.

In 2018, Jones made his presence felt on and off the field when he started the season with the Lake County Captains. His outstanding performance subsequently earned him a promotion to the Lynchburg Hillcats. The season ended with a combined .283/.405/.266 slashing, 19 home runs, and 66 RBIs in 120 games between the two teams.

Jones began his 2019 season at Lynchburg, but due to his unwavering performance, he was once again promoted to the Akron RubberDucks. His exemplary performance earned him a spot in the 2019 All-Star Futures Game. The season ended with a .272/.409/.442 slash line in 126 games between both teams, 15 home runs, 63 RBIs, and a sterling record leading the minor leagues in walks with 96.

Despite missing out on the minor league games in 2020 due to the season’s cancellation, Jones’ contract was picked up by Cleveland on November 20, 2020. However, he spent the 2021 season with the Columbus Clippers, displaying an impressive performance as he slashed .238/.356/.431 with 13 home runs, 48 RBIs, and 25 doubles over 99 games.

The career-defining moment for Jones came on July 8, 2022, when the Guardians recalled him from the minor leagues. The same day, his major league debut saw him collecting his first career hit, an RBI double, off Royals starter Brady Singer. Just a day later, Jones hit his first career home run, a massive 450-foot shot off Jackson Kowar.

Jones’ bright journey took another thrilling turn on November 15, 2022, when he was traded to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for Juan Brito. He was subsequently optioned to the Triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes to begin the 2023 season. His first season with Colorado proved to be his best season yet as he had a remarkable batting average of .297 along with 20 home runs, 62 RBIs, and stolen bases each. His stellar performance placed him fourth in the 2023 National League Rookie of the Year balloting.

Nolan’s devotion to sports extends beyond his own career, as his brother, Peyton Jones, also enjoys a flourishing sports career. Peyton played Division I ice hockey for four years at Penn State, now signed by the Colorado Eagles of the AHL, and currently serves as a goaltender for the Iowa Heartlanders of the ECHL.