Shane Panzini's journey from a standout high school pitcher in New Jersey to a promising prospect in the Kansas City Royals organization is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and unwavering determination. Selected in the fourth round of the 2021 MLB Draft, Panzini has steadily progressed through the minor leagues, showcasing the skills that have made him a player to watch in the coming years.
High School Stardom at Red Bank Catholic
Shane Panzini attended Red Bank Catholic High School, where he quickly emerged as one of the state's premier pitching talents. As a freshman, he made a significant impact by outdueling senior Tyler Ras—a future University of Alabama pitcher and MLB draftee—in a memorable 1-0 victory that drew the attention of numerous scouts. This early success set the stage for a high school career marked by dominance on the mound.
Throughout his tenure at Red Bank Catholic, Panzini's fastball velocity climbed, and he refined his pitching repertoire to include a sharp curveball, a developing slider, and a changeup. His performance in high-profile showcase events, such as the Perfect Game National Showcase and the East Coast Pro Showcase, further solidified his status as a top draft prospect. His skills had the attention of college and professional scouts...he committed to The University of Virginia.
Drafted by the Royals
The Kansas City Royals selected Panzini with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2021 MLB Draft, signing him to an above-slot bonus and he started his professional career, forgoing attending college.
This selection was part of the Royals' strategy to invest in high-upside high school pitchers, and Panzini fit the mold with his projectable frame and advanced pitching arsenal.
Climbing the Minor League Ladder
Panzini began his professional career in the Royals' minor league system, where he has continued to develop his skills. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 220 pounds, the right-hander has the physical attributes scouts covet in a starting pitcher.
In the 2024 season, Panzini pitched for the Quad Cities River Bandits, the Royals' High-A affiliate. Over 16 appearances (seven starts), he compiled a 3-3 record with a 5.29 ERA, striking out 48 batters over 51 innings. While his ERA indicates room for improvement, his strikeout numbers highlight his ability to miss bats—a crucial skill as he advances through the ranks.
A Promising Future Ahead
As of the 2025 season, Panzini remains an active and promising prospect within the Royals organization. His journey from a high school standout in New Jersey to a professional pitcher exemplifies his dedication and potential. With continued development and refinement of his pitching repertoire, Panzini has the tools to make a significant impact at the major league level in the future.
Shane Panzini's story is one of talent, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—a narrative that Royals fans will eagerly follow as he progresses toward realizing his big-league dreams.
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