A Milestone for Vermont Baseball
Kaiden McCarthy, a Chester native and graduate of Vermont Academy, has etched his name into Vermont sports history by becoming the first native Vermonter ever selected among the top two rounds of the Major League Baseball draft.
The Atlanta Braves chose him with the 48th overall pick in the second round, a milestone that underscores the growing pipeline of talent from the Green Mountain State. McCarthy, a right‑handed pitcher known for a 0.72 ERA in his senior season, capped his high school career by leading the Wildcats to the Lakes Region championship game.
After receiving offers from several collegiate programs, including a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, McCarthy elected to forgo college and sign his first professional contract with the Braves. His decision was influenced by years of mentorship from his parents, Matt and Shanna McCarthy, who instilled in him a work ethic and a commitment to authenticity.
McCarthy’s ascent was not instantaneous; it began with early scouting trips to Jupiter, Florida, where he trained with the Milwaukee Brewers’ scout team as a freshman. Over the next few years he worked with a roster of coaches — Frankie Pizzo, Andrew Pedone, Matt Frey, Marc Nellist, and the local staff at Vermont Academy — who helped refine his mechanics and mental approach.
The young pitcher’s family ties run deep in the community. His older brother Dylan and father Matt have been constant supporters, while his mother Shanna has cheered him from the stands. Together they embody the values of perseverance and humility that McCarthy says will guide him through the challenges of professional baseball.