Taytum Reeves started day one of the 14U National Team Championships in North Carolina by sending a solo shot over the left field wall and ended it by striking out the side.

The skilled utility player returned to the National Training Complex in Cary, North Carolina, with his travel team Stacked Baseball after participating in the 2022 13U/14U Athlete Development Program (ADP) last summer.

Reeves had a dominant day one performance both at the plate and on the mound, batting .500 with three hits and three RBIs including a solo homer and throwing three shutout innings, striking out eight.

His rocket was the first home run at Coleman Field of the National Team Championships in North Carolina, including the 16U and 17U events.

The Menifee, California, native not only pitched in Stacked Baseball’s second game of the day against East Coast Sox Scout, he also caught the team’s first game versus PRD, leading Stacked to a 2-0 start to the tournament.

Following the team’s second game of the day, Reeves spoke to USA Baseball about his impressive start to the weekend, attending the 13U/14U ADP, and his Team USA aspirations.

Q: It was a solid 2-0 start to the tournament for Stacked Baseball. What did you think of the team’s performance today?

A: “I think the team performed great. We got two wins. It didn’t look too pretty but we found a way to win as a team.”

Q: You’ve had a lot of success offensively today. What has been your approach at the plate?

A: “Honestly, just trying to hit a ground ball to second base. Keep it simple and get on top of the ball.”

Q: You pitched three shutout innings and struck out the side in your game against East Coast Sox. What was working for you on the mound?

A: “The fastball. I kept throwing it for a strike and got ahead in the counts. I also really trusted my catcher.”

Q: What was your experience like at the 13U/14U ADP last summer?

A: “It was a blast. It was probably the funnest baseball experience I’ve ever had.”

Q: How does it feel to be playing here at the National Training Complex again in terms of comfortability?

A: “It’s a blessing. It’s a beautiful field and a beautiful complex. We’re playing against great competition and surrounded by great people.”

Q: Knowing that there are members of the USA Baseball Task Force, coaches, and scouts at the event, how do you keep your focus on the field?

A: “I just keep my focus on the game and what I can control. At the end of the day, whatever happens, happens.”

Q: What would it mean to you to be selected for Team USA?

A: “It would mean everything to me. Having those three letters across my chest and representing my country would be a blessing.”

Q: I know it’s still early in the tournament, but you guys were able to get off to a good start. What do you think of Stacked Baseball’s chances heading into day two tomorrow?

A: “I think we have a great chance. We just have to play one game at a time and keep our focus on playing well and playing as a team.”