Five 2029s Ahead Of The Curve This High School Season

The future is already arriving on varsity softball diamonds across the country. These young standouts are flashing advanced tools, confident approaches, and maturity beyond their years, proving they belong playing against older competition.   From polished hitters with gap-to-gap power to versatile defenders who anchor key positions, this group is ahead of schedule and only scratching the surface.   Below, Prep Softball highlights five promising 2029 prospects who are ahead of the curve this high school softball season.    Gia Schirripa is the definition of a versatile competitor. The middle infielder and right-handed pitcher brings a well-rounded skill set to the diamond, combining infield instincts with the poise and command to contribute in the circle. A former baseball player who transitioned to softball at the 10U level, Schirripa's background shows in her athleticism, arm strength, and feel for the game. Currently competing with D1VISION 16U Premier, Schirripa continues to elevate her game against high-level competition. She earned a varsity roster spot as a seventh grader, which is a testament to both her talent and maturity, and has continued to develop into a steady, dependable presence. An A-Honor Roll student and multi-sport athlete who also plays volleyball, Schirripa prides herself on being coachable, disciplined, and committed to constant growth as she works toward her goal of competing at the collegiate level.     Kylie Bowie is a dynamic, high-energy playmaker in the class of 2029 who impacts the game in every phase. The 5-foot-5 center fielder out of Franklin High School (Tenn.) brings elite versatility to the field, thriving as both a true outfielder and a reliable utility option who can step in wherever her team needs her most. A switch hitter with power from both sides of the plate, Bowie blends extra-base potential with a strong small-ball approach, keeping defenses on their heels. Her left-handed arm adds another unique dimension to her game. Competing on the travel circuit with Fury National 2029 Runion, Bowie consistently showcases her athleticism and team-first mentality against high-level competition. A 4.2 GPA student who also plays basketball, she balances academics and athletics at a high level. Whether she's tracking down balls in the gap or sparking an inning at the plate, Bowie plays with contagious energy and a competitive edge that makes her a difference-maker.     Skylar Mathies is an emerging 2029 prospect making her mark in the Bluegrass State. Competing at Scott County High School, Mathies has already embraced the challenge of high school softball, gaining valuable experience against strong in-state competition. She also tests her game on the travel circuit with Impact Caymol National Wall 28/29, where she continues to sharpen her skills against top-tier talent. A dedicated and driven athlete, Mathies takes pride in her work ethic, coachability, and passion for the sport. She approaches each opportunity with a team-first mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement, striving to elevate both her individual performance and the success of those around her. As she continues to develop, Mathies is positioning herself as a prospect to follow in the 2029 class.     Kendall Buttles is a rising arm in the 2029 class who continues to build her reputation in Western New York. The right-handed pitcher and second baseman from Henrietta competes at Aquinas Institute of Rochester, where she has earned varsity experience early in her career. In the circle, Buttles showcases poise and competitiveness, working under pitching coach Mike Muhleisen to refine her command and expand her arsenal. On the travel circuit, she represents Starz Gold 16U Buttles, consistently facing strong competition and gaining valuable reps. With her versatility and steady presence, Buttles is a 2029 prospect trending upward.     Anabela Waldo is a driven 2029 prospect whose leadership and versatility set her apart. As a 5-foot-7 catcher, she thrives as the voice of the defense, bringing strong game awareness, confident communication, and a strategic mindset behind the plate. She also contributes in the infield, where her quick instincts and team-first approach consistently impact the game. A 3.8 GPA student with collegiate aspirations, Waldo competes on the travel circuit with Arizona Rising 16U under Coach Dave Thies, challenging herself against high-level competition. Curious and goal-oriented off the field, Waldo balances her athletic pursuits with interests in reading, swimming, and future ambitions in criminal law or sports medicine, carrying the same discipline and leadership into every arena she enters.

The future is already arriving on varsity softball diamonds across the country. These young standouts are flashing advanced tools, confident approaches, and maturity beyond their years, proving they belong playing against older competition.