Progress Report: Cayden Collins

May 12, 2020
Brett Thorney
State Scouting Director

PBR has had the chance to dig through the players and numbers from the past year, we have had a chance to see some players make some significant jumps recently. Today, we will be taking a look at a "Progress Report" feature that highlights players that have shown significant improvement in their game; whether it's on the mechanical end, performance wise, physicality or in the measurable statistic department. The "Progress Report" can be a minor improvement in recent months or a substantial transformation over time. Today we will be taking a look at '21 RHP Cayden Collins (Mountain Ridge).

Cayden Collins last attended a PBR event back in October of 2018 and was also a member of Team Arizona in the PBR Future Games in 2018. He stood out as a lean projectable frame right-handed pitching prospect at 6-foot-2, 165-pounds. He effortlessly pounded the zone at 83-86mph with an above average change-up and developing SL. His athleticism and projection made for an easy arm to follow into the future. For this, he was one of the first players to commit DI in the 2021 class in AZ before reopening his recruiting due to a coaching change.

During last summer & fall, Collins seemed to hit a bit of a plateau velocity wise, but kept his same pitch ability and presence on the mound. During this time, his CH developed into a plus pitch that he could really rely on more for a solid two-pitch combo. His velocity stuck around 83-86mph.

Today, At 6-foot-3, 180-pounds, Collins had filled out a bit, gaining 15-pounds since October of 2018. He has started to get over that wall and make some jumps velocity wise. We recently saw Collins pounding the zone, topping out at 88mph, while sitting more 85-87mph in the process. His CH continues to be plus pitch for him with fading action. His SL has gotten noticeably better thrown harder with tighter spin. Collins now has command of three solid pitches. Look for Collins to make some strides on the mound this summer. He is currently uncommitted and should be closely monitored.