For most players, the dream of wearing “USA” across their chest happens once, if at all. For Grady Emerson, it has already happened three times. Now, as he steps into the heart of the 18U National Team Training Camp Phase Two this week, he is chasing something nearly unprecedented in USA Baseball’s storied history: a chance to make his fourth national team.

Only three athletes have ever reached that milestone, cementing themselves among the greatest to come through the program. Emerson, with his mix of talent, work ethic, and maturity, now has the opportunity to join that exclusive company.

“It’s everything for me to be here. Making a USA Baseball roster is the end goal for me at the end of every season and it means so much to me. Going out on the field and knowing that I’m not just competing for my family and friends, but for literally my country means the world to me. I’m grateful to be back here.”

Emerson’s journey with USA Baseball began in 2022, when he cracked the 15U National Team roster. At the time, he was a promising young infielder from Texas with big potential and an advanced feel for the game. Competing and winning gold against top international competition at such a young age, Emerson showed not only skill but poise under pressure which served as an early sign of the steady competitor he would become.

A year later, he returned to the 15U program, representing the United States once again. That experience built on the foundation he had already laid, giving him both confidence and perspective.

“Seeing what the experience was like the first time really made me strive for more. You can’t get this experience anywhere else when you’re playing the game of baseball. When you’re playing, and competing, for a gold medal for your country. You just can’t beat that feeling.”

By 2024, his role and reputation had grown. Earning a spot on the 2024 18U National Team and winning another gold medal, Emerson solidified his place as one of the country’s elite young players. He had matured physically, refined his approach to the game, and sharpened his versatility. More importantly, he had become a trusted voice on the roster and someone who could balance competing at the highest level while keeping the team connected.

Now, as one of 40 players vying for 20 roster spots at 18U Training Camp Phase Two, Emerson is once again facing the ultimate test. The schedule will serve as a true test: early mornings, workouts, intersquad games, and constant evaluation. Every swing, every throw, every decision will be evaluated by staff.

For some, that pressure can feel overwhelming. For Emerson, it’s familiar territory.

“I know I’ll have to work hard to make the team. Training Camp has the best of the best players and no matter what happens I’m going to give it my all.”

Emerson’s experience gives him a unique edge. Having been through multiple national team processes, he knows how to navigate the demands of Training Camp, how to prepare for international play, and how to stay level-headed when decisions loom.

If Emerson earns a fourth national team selection, he will join an exclusive fraternity that includes some of the best to ever wear the stars and stripes: Albert Almora, AJ Hinch, and Scott Servais. The feat requires not just talent, but also consistency, adaptability, and an unwavering drive to keep improving.

“Growing up. I always dreamed of making one of USA Baseball’s national teams, so having the opportunity to do it on three occasions is really special. To have my names mentioned in such an elite group of guys would be really special and cool to look back on as I get deeper into my career.”

But while history is within reach, Emerson’s focus remains firmly on the present at Training Camp, competing with his peers, and earning the trust of his coaches. For him, the records and accolades are secondary to the pride of representing his country.

“A huge sense of pride comes up when playing for your country. There is no feeling like it, especially when you play on international soil. This week, at Training Camp, I want to prove myself so that I can make a national team once again.”

Whether or not Emerson secures his fourth national team roster spot this week, his impact on USA Baseball is already clear. He has consistently risen to the challenge, embraced leadership, and embodied the values of the program.

For his teammates, he is a role model. For the coaching staff, he is a dependable competitor. For the future of USA Baseball, he represents the standard of what it means to compete with pride, resilience, and humility.

And as the final roster announcement draws closer, Emerson finds himself right where he wants to be: on the field, competing for his country, and chasing history one pitch at a time.

“Every opportunity is a blessing. And if this ends up being my fourth, it’ll be something I’ll never forget.”