A New Generation of Talent
The United States will be represented at the inaugural World Collegiate Baseball Championship in Taiwan by two standout collegiate players, JD Stein of South Carolina and Kolby Branch of Georgia. Their selection marks a significant moment for both individual careers and the broader collegiate baseball landscape.
Stein, a freshman at Wake Forest, burst onto the scene with a .384 on‑base percentage, 38 runs scored, 10 doubles, five home runs and 41 RBI. He also went 13‑for‑15 in stolen‑base attempts, showcasing a blend of speed and discipline that caught the attention of national selectors.
Branch, a three‑year starter for the Georgia Bulldogs, brings a .975 fielding percentage and a .291 batting average to the mix. He contributed 20 home runs, 19 doubles and 60 RBI, helping the Bulldogs capture both the Southeastern Conference regular‑season and tournament titles.
The championship will span five days of competition, featuring pool play against Korea, Chinese Taipei and Japan before the semifinals and medal games on July 14 and 15. The event promises high‑stakes matchups and a showcase of emerging talent from around the globe.
For South Carolina, Stein’s inclusion marks the first USA Collegiate selection from the state in a decade, underscoring the region’s growing influence on the sport. Both players will join a roster that includes teammates such as Tyler Johnson, Will Sanders and Ray Tanner, all of whom bring additional depth to the squad.