Kayson Cunningham Honored as USA Baseball Player of the Year

On April 24, 2025, Johnson High School senior shortstop Kayson Cunningham was honored with the 2024 USA Baseball Player of the Year award, also known as the Richard W. “Dick” Case Award. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon the top player in USA Baseball annually and was presented to Cunningham by Brett Curll, the 18U National Team program director, prior to Johnson’s game against Clark at North East Sports Park in San Antonio. Johnson went on to win the game 3-1. 

Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier

Cunningham’s exceptional performance with the USA Baseball 18U National Team was a significant factor in earning this honor. He led the team to a gold medal in the Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier held in Panama, maintaining a .417 batting average throughout the tournament and recording at least one hit in every game. His consistent contributions, including scoring in seven out of eight games and delivering the go-ahead run against Panama in the gold medal match, earned him the Tournament MVP title. 

Johnson High School

Beyond his international success, Cunningham has been a standout player for Johnson High School. In his junior year, he led the Jaguars to the UIL Class 6A state semifinals, boasting a .437 batting average, 12 doubles, 8 triples, and 36 stolen bases. His leadership and performance on the field have made him one of the nation’s top high school baseball prospects. ​

Cunningham has committed to play baseball at the University of Texas; however, his future may lie in professional baseball. MLB Pipeline’s initial mock draft projects him as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, potentially by the Pittsburgh Pirates. His father, Marco Cunningham, acknowledges the unique position his son is in, balancing high school responsibilities with the prospects of a professional career.