Griffin Jax Bio
James Griffin Jax is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on November 22, 1994, in Greenwood Village, Colorado, Jax previously played for the Minnesota Twins. Apart from his baseball career, he serves as an officer in the United States Air Force Reserve, showcasing his commitment to both sports and service. Jax had a successful college career at the United States Air Force Academy, leading to his selection in the 2016 MLB Draft by the Minnesota Twins. He made his MLB debut in 2021 and has continued to excel as a pitcher, developing a reputation for his skills on the mound.
Early Life and Background
James Griffin Jax was raised in Greenwood Village, Colorado, where he attended Cherry Creek High School. During his senior year in 2013, he achieved a remarkable record of 7–1 with a 1.74 earned run average (ERA) and was honored as Colorado’s Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year. Despite being selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 12th round of the 2013 Major League Baseball draft, Jax opted to pursue his education and baseball career at the United States Air Force Academy.
At the Air Force Academy, Jax faced challenges during his initial years, struggling with a 5.86 ERA as a freshman and a 5.17 ERA as a sophomore. However, he made significant strides in his junior year, starting 15 games and posting a school-record 2.05 ERA, which earned him the Mountain West Conference Co-Pitcher of the Year award. This success laid the groundwork for his professional career.
Path to Baseball
After his standout junior season, Jax was selected by the Minnesota Twins in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft. He signed for $645,000 and began his professional career with the Elizabethton Twins in the Rookie-level Appalachian League, where he pitched 8+2⁄3 innings. His early career faced interruptions due to his military commitments, but he continued to develop as a player. In 2018, he was granted membership in the United States military’s World Class Athlete Program, allowing him to focus on baseball while fulfilling his active duty requirements.
Throughout his minor league journey, Jax showcased his talent, earning All-Star recognition with the Pensacola Blue Wahoos in 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he remained dedicated to his craft, ultimately leading to his promotion to the major leagues.
Griffin Jax Career
Early Career (2016–2020)
Griffin Jax made his professional debut with the Elizabethton Twins in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a promising pitcher. His early career was marked by a strong performance in the minor leagues, particularly in 2019 when he posted a 2.90 ERA over 23 starts. However, the cancellation of the minor league season in 2020 due to the pandemic limited his opportunities that year.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
On June 8, 2021, Griffin Jax made his MLB debut with the Minnesota Twins, becoming the first Air Force Academy graduate to play in Major League Baseball. He faced the New York Yankees in his debut, pitching one inning and recording his first strikeout. Jax finished the 2021 season with a 6.37 ERA over 14 starts and 4 relief appearances.
In 2022, he transitioned to a full-time relief pitcher, achieving a 7-4 record with a 3.36 ERA and 78 strikeouts across 72+1⁄3 innings. His performance continued to improve, and in 2024, he recorded career-highs with 10 saves, a 2.03 ERA, and 95 strikeouts. Jax’s consistent performance solidified his role as a key player for the Twins.
Notable Works and Milestones
Griffin Jax’s signature work includes his impressive relief pitching during the 2024 season, where he set personal bests in several categories. His commitment to both baseball and military service has made him a notable figure in the sport.
Griffin Jax Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Griffin Jax has received recognition for his performances, particularly during his college years and early professional career. His achievements in the minor leagues and his transition to the major leagues have garnered attention from fans and analysts alike.
Griffin Jax Awards Won
Griffin Jax has not yet received major awards in Major League Baseball, but his accolades during his college career, including the Mountain West Conference Co-Pitcher of the Year, highlight his potential and talent.
Griffin Jax Family
Griffin Jax is married to Savannah, who holds the rank of captain in the Air Force. The couple tied the knot in January 2021 in Gilbert, Arizona. They welcomed their first child, a daughter, in March 2023.
Personal Life
Griffin Jax is the son of Garth Jax, who played for 10 seasons in the NFL for the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals. Jax is currently pursuing a graduate degree in business administration from Colorado State University, balancing his academic pursuits with his professional baseball career.