Tampa Bay Rays Draft Jackson Academy Star Tai Jones in Ninth Round of 2026 MLB Draft

The Tampa Bay Rays continued adding high-upside talent to their farm system by selecting Jackson Academy outfielder Tai Jones with the 263rd overall pick in the ninth round of the 2026 MLB Draft.

The selection comes with a slot value of $211,200, giving the Rays the opportunity to sign one of Mississippi’s top high school prospects before he begins his collegiate career.

Rays Take One of Mississippi’s Top High School Prospects

Jones entered the draft as one of the state’s premier recruits, earning recognition as the No. 6-ranked prospect in Mississippi according to Perfect Game.

The athletic outfielder originally committed to McLennan Community College in July 2025 and later signed with the program. He now faces a decision between beginning his professional career with Tampa Bay or honoring his college commitment.

For the Rays, Jones represents another investment in athletic upside and long-term player development.

Outstanding Senior Season at Jackson Academy

Jones put together an impressive offensive campaign during the 2026 high school season, establishing himself as one of Mississippi’s most productive hitters.

His senior statistics included:

• .438 batting average
• 57 hits
• 49 runs scored
• 51 RBIs
• 12 home runs

Standing 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, Jones combines size, strength, and athleticism with developing power at the plate.

His 12 home runs helped Jackson Academy set a new single-season school record with 35 team home runs, showcasing the offensive firepower that made the Raiders one of the state’s top teams.

Decorated High School Career

Jones earned multiple postseason honors following his standout senior campaign, including:

• Clarion Ledger Large Class All-State selection
• MAIS All-State honors

His performance helped lead Jackson Academy to a 27-11 record, placing the Raiders among Mississippi’s strongest programs throughout the season.

Although Jackson Academy’s postseason run ended with a two-game playoff loss to eventual MAIS 4A-Division I champion Magnolia Heights, Jones’ individual production solidified his status as one of the state’s top draft prospects.

Decision Looms Between College and Pro Baseball

One of the biggest storylines surrounding Jones now is whether he will sign with the Rays or continue his baseball development at McLennan Community College.

High school players selected outside the early rounds often weigh professional opportunities against the chance to improve their draft stock through college competition.

Tampa Bay’s reputation for developing young talent could play a significant role in that decision.

Rays Continue Building Athletic Farm System

The Rays have consistently been recognized as one of Major League Baseball’s strongest organizations at identifying and developing young talent.

Jones fits the organization’s profile well:

• Athletic corner outfielder
• Developing power hitter
• Strong run producer
• High offensive ceiling
• Projectable physical frame

If he signs, he’ll enter one of baseball’s most respected player development systems with an opportunity to refine every aspect of his game.

Outlook

Tai Jones arrives in professional baseball as one of Mississippi’s most accomplished high school players after a dominant senior season at Jackson Academy.

Whether he chooses to begin his career in the Rays organization or heads to McLennan Community College, Jones possesses the tools that made him one of the state’s premier prospects. If he signs with Tampa Bay, the Rays could have landed another intriguing young outfielder with the athleticism and offensive upside to develop into a future major league contributor.