LPJ Sports Report
VERO BEACH, Fla. — Ruston High School dual-sport superstar Dalen Powell recently competed alongside some of the nation’s top young baseball talent after participating in the 2026 MLB Breakthrough Series held June 6-8 at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex in Vero Beach, Florida.
Powell, a standout dual-sport athlete for the Bearcats in football and baseball, was selected to attend the prestigious showcase for players in the 2027 and 2028 graduating classes. The event is a joint initiative between Major League Baseball and USA Baseball focused on developing players both on and off the field.
“It meant a lot,” Powell said. “It was very fun to get out there and get some other competition that was also high-level players. I also learned a lot.”
Established in 2008, the Breakthrough Series provides athletes with elite instruction, gameplay opportunities, scout evaluations, seminars, mentorship and video coverage while also giving players exposure in front of collegiate coaches and professional scouts. USA Baseball covers all expenses for participants selected to attend.
Powell said one of the biggest takeaways from the event was the opportunity to learn from coaches and players from across the country.
“The environment was great,” Powell said. “I met a lot of new people. I learned a lot of small things in baseball that a lot of people don’t teach.”
During the three-day event, Powell and the other participants played one game each day while also taking part in instructional activities and development sessions from active MLB players.
The showcase is part of MLB and USA Baseball’s diversity pipeline initiatives, which also include the DREAM Series and Elite Development Invitational. Players in those programs may receive additional development and instructional opportunities throughout the year.
Powell said the experience further motivated him as he continues pursuing both football and baseball at Ruston High School.
“I’m hoping to play at the collegiate level for both football and baseball,” Powell said.
Powell’s selection to the national showcase continues Ruston High School’s tradition of producing athletes who compete on major stages while representing the school at a high level both athletically and personally.
