MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #462: Jayson Werth

Jayson Richard Werth, born on May 20, 1979, in Springfield, Illinois, is a former professional baseball outfielder who played 15 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 2002 to 2017. Throughout his career, he was known for his powerful batting and versatile fielding skills, earning a reputation as a key contributor to every team he played for.

Werth comes from a family with a deep baseball heritage. His father, Dennis Werth, played in MLB, and his grandfather, uncle, and stepfather also had professional baseball careers. During his high school years at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois, Werth initially played as a catcher before transitioning to the outfield as his professional career progressed.

Werth made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays on September 1, 2002. During his time with the Blue Jays, he split his playing time between the majors and minors, showing promise as a versatile player. In 2004, he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where injuries, including a significant wrist injury, hampered his performance and ultimately sidelined him for the entire 2006 season.

Werth’s career took off after signing with the Philadelphia Phillies as a free agent in 2007. He became an everyday outfielder and played a pivotal role in the Phillies’ 2008 World Series championship. In 2009, he earned an All-Star selection and set a franchise postseason record with nine home runs during their playoff run, solidifying his place as one of the team’s most impactful players.

In December 2010, Werth signed a seven-year, $126 million contract with the Washington Nationals. Despite facing injuries during his tenure, he delivered standout performances, including a .318 batting average with 25 home runs in 2013. His leadership and experience were instrumental in helping the Nationals evolve into playoff contenders, making him a cornerstone of the team during his time there.

After a brief stint with the Seattle Mariners’ Triple-A affiliate in 2018, Werth announced his retirement from professional baseball on June 27, 2018. Post-retirement, he has pursued a variety of interests, including organic farming in Illinois and horse racing. His stable, Two Eight Racing, gained attention when it owned a share in Dornoch, the horse that won the 2024 Belmont Stakes.

Jayson Werth’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and significant contributions to the teams he played for. His legacy in the baseball community is defined not only by his on-field achievements but also by his leadership and the lasting impact he left on the sport.