'21 PBR State Player of the Year
June 29, 2021
Prep Baseball Report is excited for the return of Player of the Year Awards, presented by Big League Chew, after the 2020 season was cut short and 2021 generated some incredible individual moments and performances throughout Washington. As the spring high school season comes to a close, Prep Baseball Report is excited to announce one player who emerged ahead of the competition at all levels in the state. This player has been selected not only for their outstanding statistical numbers, but also for their overall effect on their high school program.
(Photo Credit - Andy Buhler - scorebooklive.com/washington)
‘21 LHP Caden Vire (Skyview/Arizona State commit)
Vire put together an absolutely dominant season on the mound for an undefeated Skyview team (17-0). In 7 starts, Vire compiled a 5-0 record with a 0.56 ERA. In 37.1 IP, he only allowed 13 hits & 3 ER with 21 BB to 74 K. Opponents hit a paltry .105 against him this season. He was also named the 4A Greater St. Helens League Pitcher of the Year. In addition to his statistical success, Vire was highly scouted this spring & has also created momentum for himself as the 2021 MLB Draft approaches.
Vire’s all-around performance, as well as the impact he has had on Skyview, has earned him the 2021 Prep Baseball Report Washington Player of the Year honors.
This was a very difficult year for HS baseball across the state. With no post-season and some leagues starting earlier than others, the lack of cohesiveness was tough to manage. Especially when some teams played more games than others or were limited to the opponents they could play. When making our final decision, we considered several factors. First and foremost we looked at the player performance and overall impact on their team. We also took into account the level of competition & a player’s prospect status.
Vire has been selected by the staff of Prep Baseball Report of Washington. The team of PBR area scouts who covered the high school baseball season throughout the spring selected Vire amongst a strong group of candidates from across the state. The Prep Baseball Report staff has been diligently scouting and covering games at diamonds across the state this spring to bring parents, athletes and fans the most comprehensive coverage of amateur baseball across the United States. The dedication and coverage allow Prep Baseball Report a credible way to identify the top athletes each year who best represent the state of Washington.
WASHINGTON PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Name: Caden Vire
High School: Skyview
Position: LHP
Size: 6-foot-6, 195
Commitment: Arizona State
Stats: 7 GS, 5-0, 0.56 ERA / .911 WHIP / 37.1 IP / 13 H / 3 ER / 21 BB / 74 K
Scouting Report
Vire has blossomed from a high ceiling 'project' arm into one of the most dominant pitchers in the state & a helium prospect for the upcoming MLB Draft. His 6-foot-6 frame has steadily added more size/mass and helped him not only reach higher velos up to 90-91 with his FB but also hold velo more consistently in the 87-89 range. The SL has continued to improve as well and has the chance to be a true out-pitch at the next level. With his size, leverage and release, Vire is an uncomfortable AB for opposing hitters. While BB can be problematic at times, the overall control does show improvement and he's able to off-set the freebies by racking up impressive strikeout numbers. Had a dominant senior year in 2021 (7 GS, 5-0, 0.56 ERA / .911 WHIP / 37.1 IP / 13 H / 3 ER / 21 BB / 74) and heads into the MLB Draft with quite a bit of positive momentum
6-foot-5, 180 pounds with an ultra projectable, wiry frame with long levers. Slightly closed off stance in the box. Stays upright with minimal bend in lower half. Lifts front foot as he drifts forward into landing. Hands shift to just below shoulder height as his stride foot gets down, allowing him to get barrel on plane early. Mostly line-drive contact during BP but did flash some lift to his pull-side. Stays tall in lower half thru contact. In the OF, adjusts footwork as needed. Capable of using long strides to cover ground but also shortened up when approaching the ball. Uses a side shuffle with some crow hop action to get into throwing motion. Works from a low ¾ slot with a loose, whippy arm. On the mound, works exclusively out of the stretch. Has some slight hesitation in delivery as he gets down the mound but it keeps his weight back and allows him to keep body control into landing. Should develop more consistency as he gets stronger. Front slide opens up nicely and allows him to have a clean path out over his front side to reach his target. Arm action stays compact and he avoids getting too long or wrapping the ball. Low ¾ release with aggressive hand speed out front. Overall, features some of the most upside of any arm in the state for his class