CHSAA Players of the Week: May 4-9

Cooper Vais RHP / SS / Arvada West, CO / 2027

Colorado’s No. 1-ranked 2027 prospect put together another huge week to help solidify Arvada West’s perfect regular season record within Colorado (zero in-state losses). The Wildcats’ ace logged 9 innings across two starts with 19 strikeouts, just one run allowed, 3 walks, and 5 hits surrendered against Valor Christian and Chatfield, both likely 5A playoff teams. Vais also made a major impact at the plate, going 5-for-8 with 2 home runs, a double, and 7 RBI. The Texas commit is firmly in the conversation for Colorado ‘Player of the Year’ honors, now totaling 83 strikeouts across 49 innings with a microscopic 0.43 ERA, while also hitting .471 with 6 home runs and 10 stolen bases offensively. On the mound, Vais works with a fastball in the low 90s, advanced feel for spin, and high-level pitchability that continues to separate him from his peers. Combined with his athleticism and offensive production, he projects as one of the more impactful two-way prospects Colorado has produced in recent years.

‘27 @TexasBaseball commit RHP Cooper Vais (Arvada West)

FB: 88-91 T92 🔥 (~2600)
SL: 83-84 (2800+)
CB: 74-75 (2800+)

11Ks across 6IP (3H, 0ER, 0BB) for the state’s #1 ranked 2027 prospect

Feel for spin 🌪️, manipulates the SL/CB combo exceptionally well & for strikes@cvais_02… pic.twitter.com/mthf41Tbpx

— Prep Baseball Colorado (@PrepBaseball_CO) March 31, 2026

Cory Dean Carver SS / OF / Montezuma-Cortez, CO / 2026

Carver is another standout Future Gamer who put together a nearly flawless week at the plate. The dynamic shortstop racked up 9 hits in 11 at-bats while adding 2 home runs, a double, 4 stolen bases, and 7 RBI, impacting the game in nearly every facet offensively. Carver’s athleticism continues to stand out, particularly with his 6.6 speed, which plays both on the bases and defensively up the middle. He covers ground well at shortstop, shows quality actions, and has the instincts and athletic ability to remain impactful on the dirt moving forward. Offensively, the hit tool has continued to develop, with improved strength and barrel feel allowing him to impact the baseball more consistently while still putting pressure on defenses with his speed. The Navy commit has a chance to be a very impactful player at the next level thanks to his blend of athleticism, defensive versatility, and a polished offensive profile. On the season at the 3A level, Cory has hit for a hefty .558 average with 21 extra-base hits and 19 stolen bases.