James Wood Bio
James Irvin Wood (born September 17, 2002) is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Washington Nationals of Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2024 and was named to his first All-Star game in 2025.
Early Life and Background
James Wood grew up in Olney, Maryland, where he initially attended St. John’s College High School in Washington, D.C. At St. John’s, he played both baseball and basketball. However, he transferred to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, during his junior year due to the St. John’s College High School baseball program’s requirement to play exclusively with their coach’s travel team in the summer. This move allowed him to focus solely on baseball. Shortly before transferring to IMG Academy, Wood committed to play college baseball at Mississippi State University in Starkville.
During his high school career, Wood showcased his talent at the 2020 East Coast Pro Showcase, which helped him enter his senior year as a top prospect for the 2021 MLB Draft. He batted .258 in his senior year, which caused him to fall slightly in most draft prospect rankings.
Path to Baseball
In the 2021 Major League Baseball draft, the San Diego Padres selected James Wood in the second round with the 62nd overall pick. He signed with the team on July 20, 2021, receiving a signing bonus of $2.6 million, significantly higher than the recommended bonus for his draft slot. Wood began his professional career with the Rookie-level Arizona Complex League Padres, where he had an impressive season, batting .372 with three home runs, 22 RBIs, and ten stolen bases over 26 games.
Wood opened the 2022 season with the Lake Elsinore Storm in the Single-A California League, where he continued to develop his skills and make a name for himself in the minor leagues.
James Wood Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
After being traded to the Washington Nationals on August 2, 2022, Wood was assigned to the Fredericksburg Nationals in the Single-A Carolina League. He had a strong showing there, batting .293 with eight doubles, two home runs, and 17 RBIs in just 21 games. The following season, he was promoted to the High-A Wilmington Blue Rocks and then to the Double-A Harrisburg Senators, where he continued to impress with his performance.
In 2023, Wood was selected to play in the All-Star Futures Game, showcasing his potential as a rising star in baseball. He was promoted to the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings to start the 2024 season, where he hit .353 with 10 home runs and 10 stolen bases in 52 games. His performance earned him recognition as the top prospect in baseball according to Baseball America’s 2024 midseason update.
Breakthrough (2024-2025)
James Wood made his Major League Baseball debut on July 1, 2024. He recorded his first hit, a single, in the second inning against New York Mets pitcher David Peterson. Over the course of the 2024 season, Wood played in 79 games, hitting .264 with 9 home runs, 41 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases.
In 2025, Wood continued to build on his success. On April 25, he achieved his first career walk-off hit against the New York Mets, contributing to a 5-4 victory. He also hit his first career walk-off home run on June 19 against the Colorado Rockies. Notably, he became the first player since Barry Bonds in 2004 to be intentionally walked four times in a game on June 29 against the Los Angeles Angels.
Notable Works and Milestones
Wood was named a participant in the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby and recorded a career-high 5-for-5 game on July 3, 2025, which included a home run and two RBIs. He was selected to the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, marking his first All-Star appearance.
James Wood Award Nominations
Throughout his career, James Wood has received recognition for his outstanding performances, including his selection to the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
James Wood Awards Won
James Wood was named an All-Star in 2025, highlighting his rapid ascent in Major League Baseball.
James Wood Family
James Wood’s father, Kenny Wood, played college basketball at the University of Richmond and is a member of the school’s athletic Hall of Fame. He also played professionally in Europe. Wood’s sister, Sydney Wood, played college basketball for Northwestern University and served as a team captain.
Personal Life
James Wood is the nephew of former NBA player Howard Wood, who played for the Utah Jazz. His family background in sports has undoubtedly influenced his career in baseball.
