The Appalachian League is set to host a highly anticipated doubleheader on June 29 in Cary, North Carolina, pitting its Select Team against the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team. The contest forms the climax of a three‑day exhibition series that began on June 27, featuring multiple games between Appalachian League clubs and the Collegiate National Team.
The 32‑player roster blends arms and bats from across the league, comprising 13 pitchers, three catchers, nine infielders and seven outfielders. The Johnson City Doughboys lead all Appy League teams with seven selections, underscoring the league’s depth and competitive balance.
Spotlight on Standout Selections
Among the notable names is infielder Jack Beck, who recently attended the 2026 MLB Draft Combine in Phoenix, alongside fellow prospect Gunner Skelton. Outfielder Carson Brumbaugh, the preseason SEC Freshman of the Year, will also be in the lineup, while pitcher Talmadge Davis earned a spot after being chosen for the HBCU Swingman Classic in July.
Coaching the squad will be Burlington manager Mickey Tettleton, who will be joined by assistants from the Burlington Sock Puppets and Kingsport staff, adding veteran experience to the bench.
Other roster members include Dave Schmidt, Roger Hill, Tommy Williams, Ty’Relle Harris, Trey Callaway, Brodie Johnston, Derrick Pitts, Julio Solier, Pablo Torres, Josh Owens, Garrett Hodges, Max Martin, Ryan McCrystal and Callan Moss, each bringing fresh collegiate experience to the competition.
The doubleheader concludes a series that not only highlights the league’s role as a development pipeline but also reflects its broader impact, as five Appalachian League alumni have gone on to play professional baseball and several others are slated to attend the 2026 Collegiate National Team Training Camp.