Jackson Prep alumni Jake Mangum got called up to the major leagues to play for the Tampa Bay Rays. Mangum is a switch hitter and is primarily a center-fielder but can play anywhere in the outfield. He was nicknamed “The Mayor” by his teammates for his leadership and impact on the team

Jake Mangum played varsity for three years at Jackson Prep where he recorded three consecutive state championships, multiple All American honors, and a strong senior year performance to earn him a spot on the Mississippi State baseball team.

Jake played at Mississippi State from 2016 to 2019 and during that time he accomplished many milestones. He holds the record for all time hits in SEC history (383), he was three time first team all SEC, he won SEC freshman of the year award, in 2018 he was named All American and winner of the CSpire Ferris trophy solidifying his status as one of the top college baseball players in the country. He helped Mississippi State reach four NCAA Super Regionals and make two College World Series appearances during his four-year career. 

Jake was drafted in 2019 to the New York Mets in the fourth round. He played in the minor leagues for the Mets, Marlins, and most recently the Rays. In 2024, he led the International League with a .317 batting average while playing for the Triple-A Durham Bulls.  

On March 29, 2025, Jake Mangum got the phone call to pack his bag and head to Tampa Bay to join the team. In his first outing he struggled going 0-3 with a walk. Everyone knew that was unusual for the “Mayor” as he quickly got back on track the very next game going 4-4 and stealing 2 bases. He is the first player since 1901 to have four hits and two steals in their first two MLB appearances. So far Jake has played 21 games he has 23 hits, 7 RBIs, 5 walks, and his batting average is .338 in 68 at bats.