The 2028 class of USA Baseball’s 16U National Team Championships unfolded in Cary, North Carolina, drawing scouts, coaches and media eager to evaluate the next wave of high school talent. The tournament, which gathered 20 teams and showcased 35 of the top 50 prospects, served as a premier proving ground for the nation’s most promising youngsters.
Alpha Prime’s Championship Run
Alpha Prime captured the title with a blend of power arms and polished hitters. The team’s victory was anchored by righthander Riley Salvemini, whose five‑strikeout outing against a tough lineup underscored his dominance on the mound and exemplified the kind of pitching depth that can shift a game’s momentum.
Among the position players, Flip Watters, ranked No. 3 in the 2028 class, impressed with a combination of athleticism, a smooth swing and raw power that translated into several extra‑base hits. Rylan Jenkins, ranked No. 26, likewise combined a .538 batting average with stellar defensive work at shortstop, earning praise for his all‑around skill set.
The tournament’s statistical leaders read like a who’s‑who of the 2028 rankings. Bryan Mesa, ranked No. 11, displayed a powerful right‑handed swing, while Landon Bonner posted a .538 average that placed him among the offensive standouts. Ethan Stewart, ranked 17th, finished with a .500 average, and Jacob Welch, ranked No. 10, showed quality at‑bats while handling both shortstop and second base.
Other names that surfaced include Jaxxon Tweedt, a catalyst in the lineup with strong bat control, and Francis Conners‑Schmid, ranked No. 34, whose big‑power potential materialized in key moments. From Canada, Mikey Batiste brought mature at‑bats and raw power, while Axton Westmoreland showcased advanced hitting skills that hinted at future breakout performances.
The depth extended beyond the top tier. Trendyn Motley, a lefthanded power threat, and Colton Fitzgibbon, praised for his speed and defensive upside in center field, both earned mentions for their upside. Theo Swafford, ranked seventh, demonstrated polished actions and instincts on both sides of the ball, while Levi Kerr’s physical projection suggests a future plus raw power from the left side.
Scouting Implications
Scouts left the event convinced that the 2028 class will shape the next generation of collegiate and professional talent. With 35 of the top 50 players in attendance, the Cary championships served as a proving ground where pitching, hitting and fielding excellence converged, setting the stage for a promising future. The performances of players such as Grant Arnold, the top overall prospect, and Derek Vazquez, the premier shortstop, further reinforced the notion that this cohort is rich with upside and ready to make significant impacts at higher levels of competition.