PBR Georgia Player of the Week: Jackson Hills
April 10, 2019
The Decatur Bulldogs have become one of the most compelling teams to watch in 2019 because they’re being led, primarily, by a talented ensemble of juniors, namely Jordan Walker and Jaylen Paden, but that dynamic duo has really evolved into a trio this spring, especially after last week’s performance.
The two-way prospect Jackson Hills put together an enormous week for Decatur, going 7-for-11 with five extra-base hits, including four home runs which helped him drive in a total of 10 Bulldogs. And he’s not just doing it with the bat, either. He pitched eight innings combined last week and struck out 10 over that span – including five in the Bulldogs’ 13-0 win over Jackson on Monday.
Really, his big week is just the latest evidence of the kind of season he’s having when you zoom out. This spring, Hills is hitting .386 and slugging .818 with 19 RBIs and 13 runs scored. On the mound, the uncommitted righty has amassed 31.1 innings pitched and has struck out 39 batters over that time, allowing 24 hits, 10 walks, and has groomed an ERA of 1.56.
Hill is going to be integral to the team’s tough stretch to finish the season. Decatur has an enormous two-game series with Region 6 rivals Riverwood, a team ranked just behind them on the GA Power 25 at No. 15. Both programs are undefeated in the region standings – Decatur’s 12-0 and the Raiders are 10-0 – so the two games will determine the regional champ. They’ll meet a tough Flowery Branch team on Monday before taking on St. Pius X and Tucker to close the spring before heading to the postseason.
For his efforts, Hills has been awarded our latest PBR Georgia Player of the Week honor.