A top-10 prospect in the Oregon junior class, Levi Jones (Jesuit) is one of the best left-handed hitters the state has to offer. He’s built at a wiry 6-foot, 170-pounds with plenty of physical maturity to dream on and power projection attached as well. We last saw Jones take BP in March where he displayed a fluid left-handed stroke, pull-side barrel feel, and controlled posture throughout. He’ll likely play a pivotal role in Jesuit’s quest for the 6A state championship once the OSAA season rolls around, too.

Committed to Oregon State, we spoke with Jones about his recruitment process, his most memorable baseball moment, and more in the Q&A featured below.

LEVI JONES

OUR Q&A

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Jones: I was looking for a place that felt like I could spend four years there, and a program that will develop and help me achieve my goals as a family.

P: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

J: It sort of did, my parents really want to come watch me play in the future, and Corvallis is the perfect distance for that to happen.

P: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

J: It heated up the summer of my sophomore year. I started getting more recognition and attention from colleges as I played more and more into summer.

P: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

J: The deciding factor was the unexplainable feeling I got when I stepped on campus and met the coaches. They had this way about them that made me feel at home and welcome.

P: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

J: I was talking to a few other schools before I made my decision, but OSU was always #1 on my list.

P: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

J: I’m lucky not to have to play against a lot of the guys at my school. INF Ryan Cooney (Jesuit, 2023; Oregon) and RHP Noble Meyer (Jesuit, 2023; Oregon) are both unbelievably talented and driven, but the best player I’ve faced is LHP Paul Wilson (Lakeridge, 2023; Oregon State). He’s an extreme competitor with a wacky delivery, not to mention 91-94 from the left side.

P: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

J: I realized in 13U when I started playing with kids my age. I always played up with older players, but when I played against players my age, I realized I might be able to achieve some cool things in the future.

P: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

J: Enjoy it. You only get recruited once. At the end of the day, the best are the ones playing loose and hard.

P: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

J: The most memorable moment is the tough game I had against Westview high school last year. I made many mistakes and got benched in the biggest game of the year. It taught me so much about failure and not trying to be so perfect. It isn’t the best memory, but it is for sure the most memorable.

P: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

J: We are going to win a state title. The talent, brotherhood, and atmosphere we have is unmatched. Throw anybody at our group of guys and we won’t back down. Everyone’s going to watch Jesuit play this spring.

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