Johnson High School senior Kayson Cunningham could very likely be the number one baseball recruit in Texas. In fact, the Austin-American Statesman called him, “one of the best baseball recruits in the nation and the singular best in Texas.” So, you don’t have to take our word for it.
Last year, he was part of Johnson baseball’s state run.
Over the summer, he was named MVP for USA Baseball’s U-18 Team as they clenched a spot for the World Cup.
Last month, he was named the Jackie Robinson Player of the Year at the 2024 Perfect Game.
So, you will want to remember the name Kayson Cunningham.
“Ever since I was young, I had the goal to be a big leaguer. Baseball for me is like a lifestyle. The competitiveness -- the teammates -- the coaches. I love it. I’ve been playing forever.”
Kayson started playing baseball around the time he started at Tuscany Heights Elementary School. He continued playing during his time Tejeda Middle School. He took advantage of every baseball camp he could and he was named to Johson’s baseball team as a freshman.
Here’s the thing, Kayson is as humble as he is good.
“I am not different than anyone else, but my goals are different,” said Kayson. “So, I have to stay focused. I’ve have had to keep my eye on the ball. Johnson has been a big part of my success. We went to the state tournament. You play the game to have fun and win and that was fun! Being a part of something that is greater than yourself, it just really ups my game to another level. My coaches have really helped me stay focused and humble throughout all of this. They are a big part of my success. I love Coach Gessell. He believes in me.”
Kayson is excited for his senior year and the possibility of another state run. He’s already committed to the University of Texas, but there’s a good chance his name will be called during the Major League Baseball draft.
“This is pretty much everything I have dreamed up and expected for myself. My parents really instilled those values in me since I young. Obviously, the work isn’t finished, but you’ve got to dream big. I had to dream big and work hard to be where I am at now and I am doing it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. Put in the work. It can happen for you too.”
Kayson didn’t give up and now he’s living his dream #theNEISDway
