Less than five percent of high school baseball players commit to play in college, so when one does, it is a cause for celebration. For North Atlanta’s very own, Jonathan French, dreams of playing college baseball have become a reality. The senior recently committed to the renowned collegiate program Washington and Lee University, out of Virginia. 

French has been waiting to be a Dub his whole life – elementary school at Morris Brandon, middle school at Sutton, and has now represented the Warriors for all four years of high school. Throughout this time, French has become an elite baseball player and a renowned hard worker. Like many of his teammates, his playing career began at the Buckhead Baseball League, then upgraded to travel ball, and finally to the high school level. Everywhere French has played, his talent has followed, but what stands out the most is the countless hours he backs his play up with. “I am a North Atlanta kid from start to finish,” said French. “The NAHS baseball community is amazing. I have loved playing around it my whole life.” 

Washington and Lee, a division three school in Lexington, is French’s home for the next four years. Playing at the next level, both collegiate and professional, has always been the dream for French, and with hard work, a strong support system, and undeniable talent, he is one step closer. The speedy second baseman and outfielder is a master on the base paths in addition to being a lockdown defender. His remarkable 6.57 60-yard dash and insane 38 stolen bases during the 2021-22 season helped French be head and shoulders above his competition, despite his small frame. “He is the first person on the field and the last to leave,” said teammate Sam Neal. “Jonathan’s hard work is the biggest factor in his success.” 

French has been a remarkable talent for the North Atlanta baseball program, and he looks to continue leading the team, as he embarks on his senior campaign this spring. French and the rest of the Diamond Dubs have high hopes for this season as they look to rebound from an abrupt ending last year. French wants one more shot at a state championship before he leaves for Virginia next fall. As one of the few players who gets to continue his career, he still looks to capitalize on his send-off season. “We are going for gold this year,” said French. “Dubs by 100.”

French is just one of the many incredible Dub athletes talented enough to reach the next level. Washington and Lee is receiving an elite baseball player and an even better person, but only after French helps secure a state championship for North Atlanta. He joins teammate Sims DeLong as future Washington and Lee Generals, a dynamic duo that will cause nightmares for opponents for years to come. Go Dubs and go Generals!