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SPX RHP Casan Evans
READY TO GEAUX: LSU-commit Evans anticipating strong year for SPX
After becoming one of the leaders of the Panthers' bullpen during his sophomore year, in which SPX won district, all eyes have been on Evans. Given the current NCAA-Divison I rankings, it should be no surprise that a top prospect like Evans would decide to join the No. 1 ranked LSU baseball team.
“I chose LSU, not only because of the coaching but because of the community and fan base that they have there,” said Evans. “I know that they are always welcoming and will always support their players.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Starting baseball at a young age, Evans’ throwing arm and technique have gotten stronger by the year.
“It has taken hard work and dedication for me to get to this point,” Evans said. “More importantly, it was my family, coaches, and close friends who pushed me every day. I wouldn’t be here right now without them.”
The Texas Marucci Elite pitcher has been starting for the Panthers since his freshman year, leading them to playoff berths each season. Baseball is in his blood, and it’s safe to say his time spent has helped Evans to enhance his craft and love for the game.
“Playing baseball for SPX has made me a better person,” said Evans. “It’s helped me to make friends and has taught me great life lessons that I’ll take with me ‘til I die.”
Considering his father Michael Evans is the coach at SPX, it shouldn’t be a surprise as to who Evans’ inspiration is.
SPX Head Baseball Coach Michael Evans
“My biggest role model is my dad,” Evans said. “He knows what it takes to play at the highest level and he fought his whole life to get to that point. Unfortunately, he never made it to the Majors. He fought for seven years in the Minors, but he never had a bad attitude about it. He helps me with whatever I need to do and will always push me, no matter what.”
Expect big things from Evans and St. Pius baseball this Spring. Rest assured, the team is preparing for a deep run and has high expectations.
“This year should be great for the team,” said Evans. “We have a really good chance at winning it all. But, I’m really excited about next year (my senior year), since we will have more team chemistry and we’ll be able to beat anyone.”
VYPE 2021 Baseball Preview: The Big Smooth
The junior can hit for power and average; he has a big arm and can field his position at first base or in the outfield.
Now he can run.
"A year ago, I was all about power," he laughed. "I was about 270 pounds and I've really worked myself into shape to 225 pounds. I was a big fat guy. I still have that power gap to gap, but now I can really run."
After his work is done at Tompkins, the name LaViolette will look good across his purple and gold jersey of the National Power LSU Tigers.
"It was an easy decision for me," he said. "I was born and grew up in Louisiana. It's always been my dream school and my dream became a reality. It all fell into place."
The "Big Smooth" played basketball until the ninth grade but saw his future was with the hardball.
"At that time, I had to pursue baseball full time," he said. "It takes coming out here every single day to put the work in. You have to work your butt off to get where I want to go. It's a 'no-days-off' thing. I'm just putting my foot down and ready to hit, no matter the velocity."
LaViolette has hit some jawdropping bombs at the high school level and for his showcase team 12 Baseball.
Outside of that, he's a country boy.
"I like to hunt, fish… anything outdoors," he said.
Which of course includes baseball.
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