Three Nats' represent Canada at PBR Future Games

The top uncommitted prospects across Canada and the U.S. came together in Atlanta, Georgia as the calendar flipped from July to August for Prep Baseball Report's Future Games. 

Brothers Tanner and Griffin Almond, both 2021's, competed with Team Canada in the Future Games while 2022 Blake Gillespie did so in the Junior Future Games. 

It was the first time any of the three players had the honour of representing their country and did so in front of 250+ college scouts. Not only did they play several games against different states but had the chance to showcase their tools in a pro style workout on Scout Day. 

The Nationals were well represented in Atlanta and Tanner spoke about one of his first experiences playing in a setting that had hundreds of scouts eyes staring directly at him.

"It was nerve-racking before the game, I was shaking a little bit. At the same time it was very exciting and I was pumped to see every dream school I could imagine watching me play as well," explained Tanner. 

After an impressive summer for Gillespie up the middle, he carried that throughout his time in Atlanta and he says this opportunity was a good way to see how he stacks up against the competition he hopes to one day face in the U.S.

"It was great playing against the best players from each state. It allowed me to evaluate my play and see how I look compared to the best competition. I got the chance to see where I need to improve and where I've been able to excel recently," said Gillespie.

Being identified as one of the top uncommitted prospects from your country is a huge honour and the trio still have a few years to make a decision and put pen to paper on which college campus they would like to attend. 

But in the mean time, as Griffin says, the boys are just trying to enjoy moments like these where they feel like they are truly living out a dream. Baseball can take you to some cool places and this happened to be one of those.

"It was one of the greatest feelings ever. I couldn't wait to throw the jersey on once I got to Georgia and just being able to say that you played for your country was truly an honour. I have always imagined playing baseball for my country and it was amazing to see my dreams become a reality," added Griffin. 

It was an excellent couple days for these individuals to put their talent on display and represent the Ontario Nationals on the international stage. Big strides were made throughout the season and our organization is thrilled to see it pay off.