Jaykob Acosta graduated from Fresno State in the summer of 2024 and made his first appearance in a Gary SouthShore uniform in late August against the Lake Country DockHounds. Acosta took the mound and struck out a fellow rookie Luke Napleton for his first professional punchout, he then proceeded to strike out the next batter, 2023 all-star Blake Tiberi, and induce a ground out of Chavez Young for a clean first inning. The right-hander took the hill for seven games posting a 4.15 ERA, struck out seven, and right-handers hit only .208 against him. 

“Acquired late in the season after being recommended by an MLB executive contact, Acosta despite some issues with walks also showed some positive signs warranting an opportunity to come into camp and earn a roster spot.” RailCats Manager Lamarr Rogers Said. “We’ll be looking for growth and improvement once he arrives.”