We continue the countdown today with number 55, Virginia shortstop Branden Cogswell. In his sophomore campaign with the Cavaliers, Cogswell found himself at the top of the lineup where he started the first 47 games. In 182 at bats, the rising junior posted an impressive .346 average with 63 hits, 55 runs and 22 RBI. The 6’2” infielder recorded 20 multiple hit games despite missing the last 15 games due to an injury. Cogswell played a huge part in the Cavaliers success in 2013 and his efforts on the diamond got him selected to the Second-Team All-ACC as well as named to the watch list for the Wallace Award which is given to the nation’s top shortstop.
The Ballston Lake, NY native attended Shenendehowa High School where he batted .500 with 10 homeruns in his senior season. Cogswell quickly proved that he was ready to play at the next level and his collection of accolades definitely supported that statement. In his four years, the slick fielding shortstop was named Player of the Year for Capital District by Albany Times Union as well as the 2011 ABCA/Rawlings High School Third-Team All-American. Cogswell knew he was ready to make the next step in his baseball career and jumped at the opportunity to be a part of the Cavaliers program.
During the 2013 summer, Cogswell spent his time in the prestigious Cape Cod League where he was a member of the Harwich Mariners. In 33 games, the standout shortstop posted a .231 average and collected 28 hits and 8 RBI in the process. The Cavalier’s shortstop also had the privilege to compete in the CCBL All-Star game for the East.
After earning his way to a starting spot, Cogswell returns to the Cavaliers for the 2014 season. His presence in the lineup has proven to be positive and he will definitely be a prospect to keep an eye on as the University of Virginia takes the field in 2014.
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