Top 2028 Prospects To Watch In Kentucky

<p>The landscape of Kentucky youth softball is continually evolving, and the class of 2028 exhibits an impressive array of talent that is ready to make a significant impact on the field. These young athletes showcase their exceptional skills and versatility, which paves the way for the future of the game in Kentucky.</p>   <p>In this article, we highlight some of the top softball prospects from Kentucky in the class of 2028, emphasizing their achievements and potential as they progress in their athletic journeys and seek collegiate opportunities in the future.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Southern Force</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Madi Stuart is an outstanding softball prospect from Bowling Green, Kentucky. Known for her speed and versatility, she is a left-handed outfielder and a triple threat. Madi is a key player for her travel team, Southern Force Premier, and her varsity team at South Warren High School, where she has made an immediate impact as a starter. In 2024, Madi recorded an impressive .455 batting average and a .484 on-base percentage during the summer and fall seasons. At Nationals, she achieved a remarkable .572 batting average and currently bats sixth in the lineup, positioned behind five players committed to Division I programs. On the field, she demonstrates exceptional speed in the outfield and on the base paths. Madi Stuart is a triple threat at the plate, as she always puts pressure on the defense. She is an athlete with athleticism, drive, and a strong character.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Jordan Shehan, an elite prospect from Bowling Green, Kentucky, excels as a third baseman and utility player. As a South Warren High School student with a 4.0 GPA, she also balances softball, church activities, and family commitments. Her sports journey began when she played on a baseball team with her twin brother—she transitioned to softball about three years later. Since playing for South Warren High School, she has contributed to the freshman, junior, and varsity teams. During her time with the Southern Force 2027 Premier team in travel ball, she achieved a remarkable .436 batting average and a .551 on-base percentage throughout various tournaments. On the field, she often plays at third base, making difficult plays look effortless and demonstrating impressive arm strength. Shehan is a versatile and athletic player who is able to transition smoothly between positions. At the plate, she shows power and is reliable with runners on base. With her passion for sports and commitment to academics and her community, Jordan Shehan has a bright future ahead.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fury Platinum</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Lo Hensley is an exceptional corner infielder from Rockcastle High School, maintaining an impressive 3.9 GPA. She has gained recognition on the Rockcastle and Fury Platinum National teams. Hensley is a versatile player who excels at both first and third base. She showcases a powerful arm and outstanding defensive skills. Additionally, her incredible range as an infielder allows her to confidently field hard-hit balls. She is formidable at the plate with an explosive swing and disciplined approach, making her a consistent offensive threat. Whether she is driving in runs with extra-base hits or maintaining a high batting average, her impact on the game is undeniable. With an unwavering work ethic and passion for the game, she is a player to watch as she rises through the ranks in the next few years.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fusion </h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Addi Vahle is a rising star who is recognized for her exceptional athleticism and strong work ethic. She plays for the Fusion 14U National and West Jessamine High School teams, quickly establishing herself as a standout player in both the outfield and at the plate. Vahle is known for her impressive range, quick reflexes, and powerful arm, making her a valuable defensive asset. She can track down any fly ball and prevent baserunners from advancing. Vahle also makes difficult plays look easy and covers significant ground. Offensively, she excels as a dynamic leadoff hitter, combining speed, power, and versatility to consistently challenge defenses. Vahle is a triple threat in the lineup with her slapping, power-hitting, and small-ball skills. Off the field, Vahle is a focused student as well. Addi Vahle's potential is limitless as she continues to develop her skills, making her a player to watch in the coming years.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Hadley Swint is an impressive prospect known for her versatility and strong work ethic. She attends Scott County High School, maintaining a 4.0 GPA, while also actively participating in the National Beta Club and various leadership programs. As a second baseman and utility player, she demonstrates smooth defensive mechanics, quick instincts, and a high softball IQ on the field. Swint plays for the Fusion Hobgood/Unruh and Scott County High School teams. She had an impressive fall season, batting .375 with three triples, two home runs, and 19 RBIs to help her team succeed against tough competition. Hadley Swint is a dedicated athlete and community volunteer with Feed My Starving Children and The Gathering Place Mission. Her commitment to excellence on and off the field makes her a player to watch as her journey continues.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Top Gun</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Lillian Bennett is a right-handed pitcher and outfielder from Henderson County High School. She is known for her talent and determination to be one of the top players in her age group. Bennett competes for the Top Gun 14U National team and shines in the pitching circle. She skillfully mixes her pitches and demonstrates impressive movement, making it challenging for opposing hitters. At the plate, Bennett's power potential is evident—her exit velocity off a tee shows her formidable presence when batting. Despite her small stature, her quick bat speed and ability to drive the ball indicate that she is a significant offensive contributor. When she's not in the circle, you can find her in the outfield, proving her ability to track fly balls. Off the field, she maintains a 3.7 GPA. Her determination as a student-athlete makes her a name to watch during her softball journey.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Jillian Rich is a talented corner infielder at Henderson County High School who plays for the Top Gun 14U National team. She is known for her impressive power and arm strength, which greatly impact her performance on the field. Rich has a strong presence at first and third bases, with an impressive overhand velocity of 63 mph. Her power is evident at the plate, as she consistently achieves exit velocities of up to 70 mph, making her an elite hitter in any lineup. Competing at a high level with the Top Gun National 14U team, Rich continues to develop her skills against top competition. She maintains a 3.7 GPA off the field, balancing her athletic pursuits with a strong academic commitment. Jillian Rich's elite softball skills and dedication make her a rising star in her class.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Macie Fleenor is a dedicated student-athlete from Meade County High School and the Top Gun 14U National team. She is a versatile athlete who excels as a right-handed pitcher and a middle infielder. Fleenor is a dynamic player with a fastball reaching 64 mph and outstanding infield defense. At the plate, she boasts above-average speed and the capability to hit for power to all fields, making her a well-rounded player. Academically, Fleenor maintains a 4.0 GPA and consistently appears on her school's Principal's Honor Roll. Her passion for competition, strong work ethic, and determination to play at the collegiate level set her apart. Outside of softball, she enjoys spending time with her family, caring for animals, and positively embracing life. Macie Fleenor's dedication as a student-athlete and determination make her a standout in the 2028 class.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Indiana Gators</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Emmy Sword is a fast and athletic outfielder from Henderson County High School and the Indiana Gators. She is also a multi-sport athlete, excelling in volleyball and softball, which highlights her versatility, agility, and competitive spirit. Academically, she maintains a 3.5 GPA, demonstrating her dedication in the classroom. On the field, her remarkable speed allows her to cover ground in the outfield, setting her apart from her peers. She has gap-to-gap power and can execute small-ball tactics, making her a dual threat offensively and defensively. Sword distinguishes herself with her physical skills, high softball IQ, and maturity, which positions her as an effective leader. While playing for the Indiana Gators, Emmy Sword continues to develop into a well-rounded and impactful player. Her work ethic, natural talent, and leadership make her a rising prospect to watch.</p>

The landscape of Kentucky youth softball is continually evolving, and the class of 2028 exhibits an impressive array of talent that is ready to make a significant impact on the field. These young athletes showcase their exceptional skills and versatility, which paves the way for the future of the game in Kentucky.