A New Era – 5 Star Midsouth 2029 Black Preview

The new kids on the block have officially arrived as we take our first look at the 5 Star Midsouth 2029 Black squad heading into Summer 2026. This roster is loaded with young talent, athleticism, and high-level pitching depth, and many of these players have already begun making immediate impacts at the varsity level during their freshman seasons this spring.

This team is going to be built on the mound and work outward from there — and early signs already point toward this group becoming a major problem for opponents throughout the summer.

One of the most exciting aspects of this team is that it is essentially a brand-new roster. 5 Star Midsouth did not field a 2029 team during the previous 14U season, but a tremendous turnout during tryouts allowed the organization to form two separate teams within the grad class. It is one of the most rewarding parts of the organization — building new groups and beginning the journey of following players throughout their high school careers.

The summer schedule brings plenty of intrigue for this squad. The group will compete in six total events, beginning with three local tournaments before transitioning into a travel-heavy backend of the schedule. The opportunity to compete against some of the top teams across the Southeast and country will provide invaluable experience and create lasting memories for this young roster.

As mentioned, roster construction begins with the depth and versatility on the mound.

Branum Smith, an All-District pitcher from Columbia Central High School, was a massive addition to the Midsouth Mafia this offseason. As reported by Tennessee Baseball Network, Smith has been “sitting 80-84 mph while mixing in a 70-71 mph breaking ball,” while already establishing himself as one of the top freshman arms in the state. His development over the next several years will be exciting to follow. https://x.com/tnballplayers/status/2053686343310463108?s=12&t=RtuafooXMnggdmHtQnJqow

Wesley Lucas from Siegel High School has already been up to 85 mph on the mound and projects as another innings-eater for this staff. After showing flashes of success during the fall season and gaining valuable experience throughout the spring, the organization is excited to see Lucas take another step forward this summer.

Aidan Latta from Green Hill High School also earned varsity innings this spring and brings value both offensively and on the mound. His athleticism and upside make him another intriguing prospect within the roster.

Keegan Lewis, also from Siegel High School, is already establishing himself as one of the premier overall prospects in the grad class. That potential was on full display during Siegel’s postseason run, where Lewis earned varsity at-bats on one of the strongest rosters assembled in program history. His ability to impact the game in every facet elevates the ceiling of this entire group. https://x.com/PrepBaseballTN/status/2055451479880699959?s=20

Jake Elliott and Brandon Kent from Oakland High School are both expected to contribute major innings on the mound while also impacting the game offensively and defensively. Both players bring versatility and competitiveness that fit the identity this roster is trying to establish.

The trio of Cameron Estep, Colton Crook, and Will Gilchrist from Station Camp High School gives the roster additional depth and athleticism. Estep brings a strong physical presence and projects to throw significant innings this summer with his ability to mix multiple pitches effectively. Crook and Gilchrist provide valuable left-handed options both offensively and on the mound, giving the coaching staff matchup flexibility throughout the summer schedule.

Ryan Ruby from Pope John Paul II High School adds another layer of versatility to the roster. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute in several areas makes him an important piece for this group moving forward. Tyler Graham from Hendersonville High School brings similar versatility and continues the theme of athletic, multi-role players capable of impacting games in numerous ways.

Jackson Stewart from Stewarts Creek High School is regarded as one of the better athletes in the class and should become a major fixture in the outfield thanks to his ability to cover ground and play multiple positions.

Behind the plate, Joey Noreiko from Mount Juliet High School and Dylan Vassar from Oakland High School will provide consistency defensively while also bringing impactful bats to the middle of the lineup.

The group will be led by Head Coach Curtis Hoppe and Assistant Coach Dmani Moton.

Coach Hoppe was a four-year player at Cumberland University where he logged over 200 career innings pitched. His coaching experience includes stops at Lebanon High School and Oakland Middle School. He now enters his ninth year coaching travel baseball, including his fifth season with 5 Star Midsouth.

Coach Moton starred at Oakland High School before continuing his collegiate career at Chattanooga State Community College. He enters his first season coaching with the organization.

There is plenty of talent within this roster. Plenty to build around. Plenty to be excited about. And as this group begins its journey together, there will certainly be plenty of eyes following along this summer.