Press release

Prep Baseball is excited to announce its North Carolina Player of the Year Award after the 2024 season generated some incredible individual moments and performances throughout the state.

Prep Baseball is excited to announce one player who emerged ahead of the competition at all levels. This player has been selected not only for their outstanding statistical numbers, but also for their overall effect on their high school program.

COBB HIGHTOWER, SS, EAST ROWAN HS, 2024

Cobb Hightower led the East Rowan Mustangs to the NCHSAA 3A state title. 

A University of North Carolina signee, Hightower put together a very impressive year in the box, on defense manning shortstop throughout the year, and as the closer for the Mustangs.  Hightower hit .462 in 35 games, In knocking in 48 runs, Hightower had nine homers, 10 doubles and 2 triples, slugging .856. In 142 plate appearances, Hightower earned 36 free bases through walks or hit by pitch, while only striking out 12 times.  His total on base percentage was .592.

Defensively Hightower shined as well.  While the “runs saved” stat is not available at the high school level, Hightower played well above average at shortstop with 73 assists and 35 putouts in 117 chances, fielding .923.  While he did make nine errors, Hightower’s aggressive nature and infectious energy had a profound effect on his teammates and games, seeing that the Mustangs were a team that attacked the opportunity to make a play, all the way to their state championship.

Hightower also made 17 appearances on the mound with a 4-2 record, throwing 19 innings and striking out 25.

Hightower was selected by the staff of Prep Baseball of North Carolina. 

The team of Prep Baseball is made up of scouts who covered the high school baseball season throughout the spring. The Prep Baseball staff has been diligently scouting and covering games at diamonds across the state, seeing more than 400 contests in person.