2028 Outfielders To Watch In The New Year

The 2028 class is stacked with outfielders who bring elite range, speed, and offensive impact to the field, and several of them are already making their mark against top national competition.   As the new year approaches, these athletes are stepping into bigger roles, showing advanced instincts, explosive athleticism, and the kind of playmaking ability that wins games.   Below, Prep Softball highlights seven outfielders to watch closely on the field from the high school graduating class of 2028.    Firecrackers TJ/Pantages 16U outfielder Skye Simmonds has quickly proven she's one of Southern California's brightest young talents. One of two freshmen on the varsity team last season, she was recognized for her consistent bat and athletic outfield skills. This fall, she's batting .491 with 22 RBIs and 22 runs scored, demonstrating her offensive spark from the left side. Simmonds matches her athletic success with academic excellence, holding a 4.57 GPA and earning induction into the National Honor Society. Her speed, discipline, and leadership on and off the field continue to set the bar high for the rest of the 2028 class.     Jayla Jackson, a 2028 standout for Lady Dukes Burden, continues to prove why she's a player to watch both on and off the field. A student council president with a 3.8 GPA, she excels in both leadership and academics. At a recent tournament, she hit .444 with a .583 OBP and displayed great power at the plate. In the outfield, her athleticism and instincts shine, as she recorded seven putouts while covering ground with ease. Always looking for ways to get stronger outside of softball, Jayla Jackson embodies the work ethic and drive that make elite players stand out.     Grace Tonga is an exceptional all-around athlete, boasting a blend of size, speed, and power that immediately stands out. Tonga moves with ease through the outfield and around the bases, showcasing her natural speed and athleticism. Tonga is a formidable offensive player, particularly from the left side, where she consistently demonstrates both power and a high batting average. She consistently finds ways to generate momentum for her team. With her steady and game-changing presence at the plate and in the outfield, she is an athlete who coaches are eager to work with.     Kylee Gardner, another 2028 outfielder for Lady Dukes Burden, is the definition of speed and precision. An elite athlete, Gardner uses her quick first step and defensive instincts to cover tremendous ground in the outfield, maintaining a 1.000 fielding percentage during the 2025 season. She's a dynamic slapper who utilizes bunts, slaps, and line drives to keep defenses on edge. Her .418 batting average and .495 on-base percentage highlight her ability to create pressure and consistently find her way on base. Her explosive speed makes her one of the most dangerous baserunners and outfielders in her class.     Cindi Howard's athleticism and determination set her apart, as she brings intensity and constantly pushes herself and her teammates to improve. Howard ended the summer with a .538 batting average, totaling 43 singles, six doubles, and a triple. Despite missing two tournaments due to injury, she carried that momentum into the fall season, hitting .533 with consistent contact and smart at-bats, reading opposing defenses and finding ways to make them work for her. Her work ethic, leadership skills, and natural athletic ability make her a difference-maker every time she steps on the field.     Cali Siguenza is a versatile and talented outfielder who consistently impresses on both offense and defense. As a center fielder, she demonstrates exceptional range and accurately reads the ball off the bat, frequently making tough plays look easy. Siguenza's firm and precise arm sets her apart on defense. At the plate, she provides reliability to the lineup with her steady presence. She can drive any pitch into the gaps. Cali Siguenza's athleticism, consistency, and adaptability make her a standout all-around player in her class.     Carli Ray is a three-sport athlete who brings competitive fire and versatility to every team she plays for. Ray had a strong 2025 summer season, batting .356 with 16 singles, eight doubles, two home runs, and 20 RBIs. She's continued that elite performance into the fall season as well. Ray can play almost any position on the field and has an exceptional throwing arm. Frequently found in the outfield, she uses her speed and quick first step to track down fly balls, demonstrating her willingness to put her body on the line by diving for balls. Carli Ray loves the game, works hard, and is just beginning to realize her full potential.

The 2028 class is stacked with outfielders who bring elite range, speed, and offensive impact to the field, and several of them are already making their mark against top national competition.