Fond du Lac Player Hits Home Run in MLB Debut

FOND DU LAC, Wis. – The Fond du Lac community is celebrating as former Dock Spiders infielder Jake Elko made a memorable impact in the Major Leagues this weekend. Elko hit a three-run home run, leading the Chicago White Sox to a 4-2 victory over the Miami Marlins on May 11 at Rate Field.

This milestone marks Elko’s first career hit in the majors, achieved in just his second start after making his MLB debut the previous day. Facing Sandy Alcantara, a former NL Cy Young Award winner, Elko drastically changed the game with his decisive swing in the sixth inning, breaking a 1-1 tie.

The moment was extra special for Elko, as it coincided with Mother’s Day and his mother, Cheryl, was in attendance. He also presented her with a special pink bat that bore her name, along with the baseball from his inaugural hit.

A 26-year-old Florida native, Elko is the seventh former player from the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders to reach the majors. He joins a list that includes notable names like Brewers infielder Caleb Durbin and Padres pitcher Ryan Bergert. Elko, Durbin, Bergert, and outfielder Chandler Simpson all made their major league debuts this season.

Elko was selected by the White Sox in the 10th round of the 2022 MLB draft after a standout collegiate career at the University of Mississippi. During his time with the Dock Spiders from 2019 to 2020, he batted .319 with 12 home runs and 60 RBIs in 85 games.

Before his major league debut, Elko played for several minor league teams, including the Arizona Complex League White Sox and Triple-A Charlotte. Despite an 0-for-5 start, Elko’s dramatic home run highlights a promising career ahead.

Elko is now the second White Sox player to hit a home run as their first career MLB hit, following a teammate’s achievement in the previous season. The Dock Spiders’ Northwoods League season is set to commence later this month, with many fans eager to see the next wave of talent.