Future Games MVP: SS Cam Kozeal
August 5, 2021
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“Ultimately, he just has that ‘it’ factor at the plate”
-Rob Allison
EMERSON -- Cruising into the summer with a huge state championship victory at Nebraska prep power, Millard South, 2023 SS Cam Kozeal was likely a household name in the Cornhusker State. A multi-sport athlete (football), who was named first team all-state as an infielder, Kozeal’s successful spring campaign is well documented.
But where did that put him on the national stage?
Unproven on the summer circuit, Kozeal made the most of his opportunity competing against the top uncommitted underclassmen in the country in front of more than 300 college coaches at the prestigious PBR Future Games. Having gained comfort in the spotlight during the high school season, the big stage did not phase him in the least, and the young slugger rose to the occasion, far exceeding any expectations that there may have been.
And for that, he has earned the distinction of being the Most Valuable Player of the 2021 PBR Future Games.
The strong and athletic, 5-foot-11, 190-pound infielder went 5-for-9 with a hit in each the three games, including a home run and double, and was stellar defensively from his shortstop position. Taking a professional approach from the left side, Kozeal impacted the baseball to all fields, and was a persistent threat to do damage. He was simply a must-watch player every time he stepped to the plate. Calm and comfortable in the box, his innate ability to slow the game down stood out equally as much as the heavy barrel and quick hands that drove the barrel through the baseball. There was no discomfort in facing premium arms in each at-bat, and instead, Kozeal appeared eager to entertain the opportunity. He took one of the best batting practice sessions of the entire event during workouts, and confidently hammered balls from pitch one. With big exit velocities and real power potential, Kozeal had the sweetest swing at the event, and his ability to change planes and adjust was eye opening.
There is a presence to the way Kozeal stands in the box, and the way he carries himself on the diamond. He EXPECTS to succeed. It isn’t cocky. It isn’t brash. Just a quiet confidence that pervades and helps raise his already strong toolset.
Nearly as impressive on the infield, he possesses a quick first step, and while he is hard-nosed and blue collar, the hands are soft and sure with a quick transfer and release out of the glove. He likely profiles best as a premium defender at third or an offensive second baseman, although it would be unwise to count him out at shortstop given the track record of success.
The Iowa-Minnesota-Nebraska team that Kozeal played for is well known for having players excel at the Future Games, and PBR Nebraska Scouting Director, Brian Feekin, was adamant that Kozeal would “blow up at this event.” And that is exactly what he did. Per Nebraska Executive Director, Rob Allison, “Kozeal is extremely hitterish with the tools to hit for power and average as he continues to move up levels. I felt strongly that Camden would perform well in the Future Games environment. He’s an extremely talented, blue-collar kid, and a hard worker, so I knew he would go out and compete well.”
From an opposing state director:
“He was noticeably locked in against us, and was on everything thrown his way. Simple overall approach with quick/strong hands and easy bat speed. Mature approach. Easily the toughest out of the week for our pitchers.”
In the end, it was a tremendous showing from Kozeal, who showcased equal parts present performance and future potential. A fun player to watch, perhaps the most exciting thing is that he still has two more years of high school to get better.
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