When college and professional scouts showed up to watch the Kansas City Royals Scout Team last fall, they were able to see some of the top prospects in the Midwest.

Many expected to see some of the top prospects for the class of 2011, 2012, and even 2013. Little did they know, one of the top prospects for the class of 2014 would be roaming the outfield as well.

Standing at 6-foot-2, 226-pounds, Zack Shannon does not look like your typical underclassmen. The power-hitting outfielder and pitcher from Cincinnati Moeller has quickly emerged as one of the top prospects in the class of 2014.

Like most freshman at Moeller, Shannon did not have the chance to play varsity. With an abundance of talent ahead of them, Shannon and fellow standout Riley Mahan continued to refine his skills with his classmates.

When reflecting on the chance to play in the Moeller program, Shannon notes, “With the rich tradition that has been going on for 51 years, it is a great experience. When you’re expected to be the best, it continues to push you.”

In the summer, Shannon participated on the Midland Braves, who finished runner-up at the Perfect Game 16U BCS National Championship in Fort Myers, Florida. While the team played a 16U schedule, the roster was composed of many of the top players from the class of 2014 in Ohio.

“Traveling across the country this year was great,” Shannon recalls.

“Going down to Florida in July for the Perfect Game BCS was one of the best tournaments that I have played in so far.”

Shannon, who put together an impressive performance at the tournament, was named the MVP of the event.

Looking ahead, the young outfielder will be playing for the Royals Scout team as well as the Champions Fall League. Next spring, he notes, “My goal is to play varsity as a sophomore and become a starter.”