Five Underrated 2028 Pitchers We'll Be Watching This Year

In youth softball, the spotlight often finds the flamethrowers and the headline-grabbing names first. But every season, a handful of pitchers quietly go to work—commanding the zone, changing speeds, and finding ways to win without the fanfare. They're the competitors who keep lineups off balance, rise to the moment in tight games, and give their teams a chance to win every time they step into the circle.   Below, Prep Softball highlights five underrated 2028 pitchers we'll be watching this year as they likely emerge as ace-like options for their teams.    River Mount is a name to know in the 2028 class. The left-handed pitcher from Mustang High School brings a combination of command and creativity to the circle, consistently spinning the ball and hitting her spots with precision. A true tactician, River thrives on keeping hitters off balance, mixing speeds and movement while using her “junk” pitches to induce weak contact and pop-ups. A 4.0 student and competitor for Tribute Premier '09, River also contributes at first base, showcasing her versatility and softball IQ. Beyond her performance on the field, she's passionate about growing the game and is always eager to help younger players fall in love with softball the same way she did. With her poise, pitchability, and leadership qualities, River Mount is a 2028 prospect trending in the right direction.     Emily Jeffers, a 2028 right-handed pitcher and third baseman at Powell High School in Powell, Tennessee, is a true two-way presence with a strong foundation both academically and athletically. An honors student boasting a 4.3 GPA, she brings the same discipline and focus from the classroom onto the field. In the circle, Emily competes with confidence and composure, while her ability to contribute at third base highlights her versatility and athleticism. Her work ethic, coachability, and commitment to excellence make her a well-rounded prospect in the 2028 class with plenty of upside moving forward.     Taylor Carver is a versatile 2028 prospect out of Hermann High School in Missouri, bringing value on both sides of the ball as a right-handed pitcher and utility player. Competing for Select Fastpitch 18U McManus, Carver has proven she can hold her own against high-level competition while continuing to develop her overall game. Primarily a RHP/RHB, she also contributes as a corner infielder and outfielder, showcasing her athleticism and team-first mentality. In the classroom, Taylor maintains a strong 3.6 GPA, reflecting the same consistency and work ethic she displays on the field. With her versatility, competitive mindset, and steady growth, Carver is a 2028 name to keep an eye on in Missouri.     Keelei Brown is an intriguing 2028 prospect out of Linton-Stockton High School in Indiana, bringing strength and versatility to the field. At 5-foot-9, the right-handed pitcher and first baseman competes with OH Stars National Cole 16U and has already proven she can perform on a big stage as a USA HPP National Selection Qualifier. A right-handed power hitter with presence in the box, Brown combines strength with an aggressive approach, making her a dual-threat star both offensively and defensively. In the circle, she works with confidence and composure, while her ability to anchor first base adds to her overall value. A member of the National Honor Society with a 3.7 GPA, Keelei pairs athletic ability with academic excellence, positioning herself as a well-rounded 2028 prospect to follow closely.     Maddie Jones is a dynamic 2028 right-handed pitcher and utility standout at Mount St. Mary Catholic High School in Oklahoma, bringing a well-rounded skill set and competitive edge to everything she does. Standing at 5-foot-4, Maddie commands a six-pitch mix in the circle, featuring a 62 mph fastball, changeup, rise, screw, curve, and drop. She also contributes at second base and across the field for her teams, underscoring her versatility and softball IQ. Competing in travel ball with Epic Premier – NT Brice 18A, Maddie has played up at the 18U level since age 13, embracing the challenge and continuing to elevate her game. In the classroom, she shines with a 4.198 GPA and involvement in Math Honors Society, while also serving as a Co-Lead in Competitive Robotics and participating in her school's Ambassador program. A multi-sport athlete who also runs track and a proud Cherokee Nation Tribal member, Maddie is definitely a player to watch this year.

In youth softball, the spotlight often finds the flamethrowers and the headline-grabbing names first. But every season, a handful of pitchers quietly go to work—commanding the zone, changing speeds, and finding ways to win without the fanfare. They're the competitors who keep lineups off balance, rise to the moment in tight games, and give their teams a chance to win every time they step into the circle.