A dedicated ESPNHS team managed the Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year selection process, resulting in this winner based on the program's three pillars: athletic production and impact in the 2011-12 season, high academic achievement and exemplary personal character.
For his 47 fellow Gatorade State Baseball Player of the Year winners, click here.
THE WINNER: Shilo McCall
THE BASICS
School: Piedra Vista (Farmington, N.M.)
Grade: Senior
Position: OF/RHP
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 205 pounds
THE PILLARS
Athletic achievement: McCall led the Panthers (28-3) to their third straight Class 4A state championship this past season. He batted .561 with seven home runs, 52 RBI and 46 runs scored, posting a .667 on-base percentage. A 2011 First Team All-State selection, McCall also compiled a 7-2 record on the mound with a 2.90 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 54 innings pitched.
Academic excellence: McCall has maintained a 3.68 GPA in the classroom.
Exemplary character: A devoted member of his church community, he has volunteered locally on behalf of the Special Olympics and as a youth baseball coach.
THE PRAISE
“Shilo McCall is a tremendous athlete,” said Piedra Vista head coach Mike McGaha. “He’s been such a huge part of all our success here and he has a chance to drafted and make a big impact at the next level.”
THE FUTURE: McCall has signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball on an athletic scholarship at the University of Arkansas this fall.