Five Underrated 2029 Pitchers We'll Be Watching This Year

The 2029 class is already beginning to separate itself, and while some names consistently grab headlines, there's a group of talented arms in the class flying just under the radar. These pitchers may not always dominate the spotlight, but their command, composure, and competitive edge make them intriguing prospects going forward.   Below, Prep Softball highlights five underrated 2029 pitchers we'll be watching this year as they likely emerge as ace-like options for their teams.    Brooklyn Alvarado is a promising 2029 right-handed pitcher and first baseman at Olathe West High School. A true multi-sport athlete competing in volleyball, basketball, strength training, and softball, Alvarado brings well-rounded athleticism and competitive toughness to everything she does. In the circle, Alvarado stands out for her quiet, composed presence. She is analytical and detail-oriented, carefully studying hitters and situations while maintaining steady body language regardless of the moment. Her ability to control her emotions allows her to stay locked in pitch after pitch, giving her team a reliable and calming force in the circle. On the travel circuit, she competes with Pride Select Fastpitch-Charles 16U, continuing to refine her craft against strong competition.     Haley Schmitt is an accomplished 2029 right-handed pitcher and shortstop at Katy High School. Schmitt has already built an impressive résumé early in her career, twice earning USA Softball All-American honors and participating twice in the USA Softball High Performance Program (HPP). A true two-way talent, Schmitt commands the circle with confidence while also bringing athleticism and range to the left side of the infield at shortstop. Her versatility allows her to impact the game on both sides of the ball, making her a valuable piece in any lineup. Off the field, Schmitt excels academically, carrying a 4.29 GPA. She also competes in travel ball with Hustle Nation Fastpitch, continuing to sharpen her skills against top-tier competition.     Gabrielle “Abby” Wright is a powerful 2029 right-handed pitcher and first baseman at The Baylor School. Competing for OH Stars National Cole 16U on the travel circuit, Wright has built a reputation as a true power hitter who can change the game with one swing. In the circle, Wright brings strength and presence, attacking hitters with confidence. At the plate, her power stands out, driving the ball with authority and providing consistent run production in the middle of the lineup. Her ability to contribute both as a pitcher and at first base makes her a valuable two-way asset. Off the field, Wright carries a 3.7 GPA, balancing strong academics with high-level softball.     Cate Robertson is a dynamic 2029 right-handed pitcher and utility player at Evangelical Christian School in Florida. Robertson was part of the 2025 1A Florida state championship team, gaining valuable experience on one of the biggest stages in high school softball. Versatile and dependable, Robertson contributes in multiple roles, whether she is commanding the circle or stepping into utility positions to support her team. She also competes on the travel circuit with Rock Gold Manetta, continuing to elevate her game against strong competition. A member of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), Robertson pairs her athletic success with academic achievement. She carries a 4.06 GPA at Evangelical Christian, reflecting her dedication in the classroom.     Valencia Falco is a 2029 right-handed pitcher and outfielder at Ludlow High School in Connecticut who brings energy, focus, and competitive drive to the field. She competes in travel ball with CT Impact Premier 14U, sharpening her skills against strong regional competition. Known for being full of laughs off the field, Falco flips a switch when it's game time. Once she is between the lines, Falco is locked in and ready to compete, bringing intensity and concentration to every pitch and play she is involved in. Falco also excels academically, carrying a 3.8 GPA. With her versatility as both a pitcher and outfielder, along with her focused mindset, she is a 2029 prospect to watch this year.

The 2029 class is already beginning to separate itself, and while some names consistently grab headlines, there's a group of talented arms in the class flying just under the radar. These pitchers may not always dominate the spotlight, but their command, composure, and competitive edge make them intriguing prospects going forward.