Eight 2028 Breakout Catchers So Far This Season

<p>The class of 2028 is already making an impact behind the plate, featuring an impressive group of catchers who demonstrate leadership and exceptional skills well beyond their years. These eight standout catchers have secured important varsity roles as freshmen and are proving to be pivotal players for their teams, contributing both defensively and offensively.</p>   <p>With strong arms, quick feet, powerful bats, and high softball IQ, this talented group is one to watch as they progress through their high school careers and into their summer seasons.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Carolina</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Collins Conley, a standout player from Wando High School, is making a significant impact early in her high school career. As a freshman with an impressive GPA of 4.63 who is enrolled in AP courses, she demonstrates a remarkable commitment to her academics and her performance behind the plate. Collins has been a two-time varsity catcher since the 8th grade and received All-Region and All-State honors in South Carolina. Her achievements include strong leadership skills, powerful batting, and impressive speed. At the time of this writing, she is hitting .333 with a .744 slugging percentage this season. Off the field, Conley takes great pride in mentoring younger players and helping teach the next generation of softball athletes. Always eager to learn and improve, Conley is a dynamic athlete with a deep passion for the game and a strong drive to excel at its highest level.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tennessee</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Aynslee Bright, a catcher and first baseman, is rapidly making a name for herself as one of the leading power hitters in her league. She attends Mt. Juliet High School, where she is a dedicated student, challenging herself with honors classes while also maintaining a strong commitment to her academic performance. In addition to her success in softball, Bright is a multi-sport athlete who plays volleyball. She places a high value on leadership and hard work. Her strong athletic presence on the field is unmistakable. Her impressive power at the plate and ability to drive the ball out of the park make her a standout. When she's not at practice or putting in extra work, she often mentors younger athletes and contributes to her local community. Bright's passion, relentless work ethic, and determination mark the beginning of her exciting journey to play at the next level.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New York</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Gabrielle Krayewski is a catcher and corner infielder known for her energy, leadership, and resilience on the field. She attends Smithtown West High School, where she excels academically as a high honor roll student and is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. Krayewski demonstrates impressive power and confidence at the plate, especially for her age. She showcases her vocal leadership and strong arm behind the plate. When she's not catching, you may find her playing either first or third base. She is known for her contagious enthusiasm and motivation, which inspire her teammates to enhance their performance. She was also a member of a Little League World Series Championship team. Krayewski is a determined and talented athlete who is just beginning to showcase her skills and work ethic.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Texas</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Millie Mayo is a dynamic multi-sport athlete from Archer City High School, known for her relentless drive and team-first mentality. She is the starting shortstop for her varsity softball team, but often also plays catcher. Mayo ranks among the top 20 in stolen bases in the Wichita Falls area, showcasing her speed and aggressive play on the base paths. Her athleticism and leadership shine both behind the plate and in the infield. In addition to softball, she also excels in varsity volleyball and basketball, and competes in track and field and tennis to boot.<span style="font-size: revert"> Mayo has achieved Academic All-District honors in both volleyball and basketball, and carries a 4.0 GPA. As a fierce competitor with heart, hustle, and versatility, she consistently does whatever it takes to help her teams succeed.</span></p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Mia Bendure is a student-athlete at Taylor High School, excelling academically and on the field. She maintains an impressive 3.7 GPA, demonstrating her commitment to her studies. As a key player and leader on her team, she serves as one of its catchers. Bendure consistently makes valuable contributions at the plate with a batting average of .350 and an on-base percentage of .451 at the time of this writing. However, what truly sets her apart is her grit, effort, and leadership. Whether she is behind the plate or playing third base, Bendure competes with intensity and heart, always giving her best for her teams. Her positive energy uplifts those around her, making her an invaluable part of both her high school and travel programs. When she's not working hard in the classroom or on the field, she enjoys spending time with her three dogs. Her passion for the game and her reliability as a teammate make her a valuable asset to any team.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Washington</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Reese Breckenridge is a catcher from Lake Stevens High School. Her quiet confidence makes her a favorite among her teammates. Breckenridge is a true student of the game with an advanced softball IQ and explosive mechanics behind the plate. She is known for her lightning-fast release and elite first-step quickness. When she's not behind the plate, you may find her playing shortstop. At the plate, she is a line-drive, gap-to-gap hitter with a strong and consistent swing, showcasing her speed on the bases. She has gained national recognition, receiving invitations to events like the USA All-American event in Oklahoma City and the High Performance Program in Florida. In addition to playing softball, she competes in volleyball, basketball, and track. She is also a proud Junior National Honor Society member, showcasing her well-rounded talent and bright future ahead.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">California</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Emma Johnson is a catcher and first baseman for Del Oro High School. She has played a crucial role in her team's 23-1 record and No. 3 ranking in the state from the time of this writing. As a catcher, Johnson demonstrates a strong physical presence and the grit and leadership qualities that coaches highly value. She is also an exceptional offensive player, boasting a batting average of .435, with seven doubles, seven home runs, and 21 RBIs in just 80 plate appearances. Known for her relentless work ethic and fierce competitiveness, she is always looking for ways to enhance her game, whether that involves extra hitting, more defensive reps, or strength training. Off the field, she maintains a 3.4 GPA. Johnson has exciting opportunities ahead of her this summer as she continues her softball journey, so keep an eye out for her.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Sophia Bicondova is an impressive catcher known for her elite defensive skills and strong presence behind the plate. As a freshman, she recorded a pop time of 1.85 seconds, highlighting her athleticism and skill. She excels at pitch framing and effectively neutralizes the opposing team's running game. Offensively, she has emerged as a significant threat, boasting a batting average of .344, with two home runs, seven doubles, two triples, and 18 RBIs at the time of this writing. Beyond her remarkable athletic accomplishments, Bicondova stands out academically as the top student in her class of 718, maintaining a GPA of 4.6. Bicondova's strong work ethic inspires her teammates and fosters camaraderie on her teams, helping everyone reach their potential. Her future as a student-athlete looks incredibly bright.</p>

The class of 2028 is already making an impact behind the plate, featuring an impressive group of catchers who demonstrate leadership and exceptional skills well beyond their years. These eight standout catchers have secured important varsity roles as freshmen and are proving to be pivotal players for their teams, contributing both defensively and offensively.