Jonah Wesely is a 6’-2”, 210-pound left-hander from Tracy HS in Tracy, California. He is rated as one of the top players in the country, and I currently have him going 28th overall in my most recent mock draft. He features a four-pitch mix that includes a 90-93 mph fastball, 70-72 mph curveball, a developing change-up that sits 78-80 and a filthy low-80s slider. He was one of the most impressive players over the summer, starring at both the Perfect Game All-American Game, as well as the WWBA held in Jupiter, Florida.
I would like to thank Jonah for his time and wish him the best of luck this season and with the draft!
Tell us about what it meant to play in the Perfect Game All-American Classic, especially in your home state.
Playing in the Perfect Game All-American Classic was the most fun I have ever had. It was a crazy experience being thrown into the fire like that in a big-league atmosphere.
You impressed scouts at the WWBA in Jupiter this summer by tossing seven shutout innings, striking out seven to just three hits allowed. Aside from the dominance on the mound, they were impressed with your physique. What did you do to prepare for Jupiter?
I was not satisfied with how my summer showcase circuit ended. I worked very hard in the fall while playing scout ball and got in much better shape. I was physically and mentally prepared for Jupiter, and I’m glad I was able to give a good performance.
What was it about UCLA that made you commit there?
UCLA is a great school. I’m very happy with my commitment there. UCLA baseball has a strong commitment to excellence and is a program where any player can excel.
Who has been the biggest influence during your baseball career?
My biggest influence has been my family, friends and wonderful girlfriend. I wouldn’t be where I am today without each one of them.
Best baseball movie ever made?
Best baseball movie ever made was Moneyball. It really illustrates the genius of Billy Beane and how baseball can be a romance, and it will also break your heart.
Aside from baseball, what do you do with your free time?
I enjoy golfing, video games, doing school work, hanging out with friends and just being a senior in high school.
Any weird baseball superstitions or rituals?
Just saying a prayer before I get on the mound.
If you could pick the brain of any player, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d love to talk to Clayton Kershaw and C.J. Wilson. Those are two great lefties that I’d love to meet someday.
You hit .400 as a junior with a .700 SLG. Considering you can handle the bat pretty well, is there a part of you that wants to play in the National League to be able to help yourself on offense?
Yeah, hitting is always a fun part of my game. Unfortunately, I’m not good enough to be a draft prospect in hitting, but that doesn’t mean I won’t have fun swinging it this year in high school!
You come from a big family. How much has the support from family helped in your success?
My family has been tremendous to me. Having four brothers and a sister was the best gift my parents could have given me.
Were you born left-handed, or were you converted knowing the premium for southpaws in the sport?
I believe I was born to throw a baseball with my left hand. I’m actually ambidextrous so I do most things right-handed, such as writing or playing pool. But I thank God everyday I can throw left-handed.
What are you working on most this offseason?
I’m just trying to get into as good of shape as I can. I just want to be mentally and physically ready for the spring. I’m looking forward to making statements on the mound!
I would like to thank Jonah again for his time and wish him the best of luck this season and with the draft. You can follow Jonah on Twitter @JonahWesely
And feel free to follow me @DanMKirby for draft updates and prospect news!
