During the second week of summer, Warrenton junior Carter Martin received the kind of news every young baseball player dreams of – an invitation to the 2025 Prep Baseball Future Games.
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During the second week of summer, Warrenton junior Carter Martin received the kind of news every young baseball player dreams of – an invitation to the 2025 Prep Baseball Future Games.
Held in Emerson, Ga., the Future Games is the premier showcase for uncommitted high school talent across the U.S. and parts of Canada. With more than 400 college coaches in attendance, it is considered the top college scouting event in the country.
Representing his home state, Martin was one of just 24 players selected to Team Missouri. Even more special, he shared the honor with four of his club teammates.
“I had gone to the junior future games a few years back in 2023 and I loved that experience, so I couldn’t wait to do it again,” Martin said.
Competing on such a big stage – and in front of hundreds of scouts – can rattle even the most seasoned players. Martin felt the natural nerves, but what stood out more was his mindset: focusing on what he could control and trusting his abilities.
“I was a little nervous, but I trusted myself, knew what I could do and got it done,” Martin said.
Martin pitched the third and fourth innings of the Missouri vs. Illinois matchup on July 25, taking the mound with his team up 1-0. As he returned to his familiar territory, he grounded himself with steady breathing and a relaxed demeanor.
“I knew I needed to show them what I could do in the limited amount of innings I had,” Martin said.
The first batter was someone Martin competed against since the age of 10. The batter grounded out to shortstop – a meaningful play that fueled Martin’s momentum.
“To get him out, especially since I know him, it gave me a little extra boost of confidence to get through the rest of the two innings,” Martin said.
Martin went on to turn in a strong performance. He allowed no walks, gave up just one hit and kept Illinois scoreless. Additionally, his fastball sat between 87-89 mph.
“I felt really good (after the two innings) and I was relieved because anything can go wrong but I just got it done,” Martin said.
Missouri went on to defeat Illinois 8-2, a special win after several years of falling short in the cross-river rivalry. The team also won its pool with a 2-1 record.
Reflecting on the experience, Martin expressed gratitude.
“I’m just thankful for the opportunity because there’s not many players in the states that get to go and it felt really good to be able to go compete with the best players in the country,” Martin said.
