When the 2022 15U National Team clinched a thrilling 4-3 victory over Cuba to capture gold at the WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup in Hermosillo, Mexico, a group of young athletes cemented their place in USA Baseball history. Now, these rising stars are back on the diamond, this time competing at the 17U National Team Championships in Cary with eyes set firmly on the next level: making the 18U National Team and defending Team USA’s title on the world stage in 2025.
This progression is more than just a step up in age; it’s a critical phase in the development pipeline for USA Baseball. The National Training Complex, with its top-tier facilities and competitive atmosphere, pushes players to elevate their game and prove their readiness for the global stage.
Among those returning to the complex with hopes of making the 18U National Team are four alumni from the 2022 15U gold medal team. Carson Bolemon, Andrew Costello, Grady Emerson, and Brady Murrietta all donned the stars and stripes in 2022 and are currently fighting for gold at 17U Champs NC as members of Canes National. Emerson, a three-time USA Baseball alum, embodies the experience and drive that comes with competing for Team USA multiple times.
“You always dream of playing for your country,” said Emerson. “It’s really cool and surreal to go out there with U-S-A on your chest and compete with the best in the world.”
This mindset is critical for all players at the 17U National Team Championships, where scouts and coaches carefully assess who has what it takes to represent Team USA. For Emerson and his teammates, every pitch and swing carries weight far beyond the immediate game.
“Knowing they’re watching adds pressure, but if you do things the right way—hustling, focusing on the little things—the big things will come eventually,” said Emerson.
Mentorship also plays a key role in the journey. Being surrounded by experienced coaches and former national team players helps athletes sharpen their skills and build confidence in a high-stakes environment like Champs NC. Emerson credits this support as vital,
“Being around great mentors and big minds in baseball through Team USA has helped me so much in my game.”
As the 17U National Team Championships continue, the presence of multiple 15U gold medalists highlights the strength and depth of USA Baseball’s events. Their combined experience, talent and passion represent the future of American baseball on the international stage.
For these players, the dream remains the same: to once again compete for their country, chase another gold medal and cement their place in Team USA history.
As Emerson puts it, “Team USA is everything to me. I take that with a lot of pride and work tirelessly every day.”
