Cooperstown Hosts Inaugural Ripken National Baseball Championships

The tournament features 12 teams that emerged from a nationwide series of qualifiers involving over 3,500 athletes, with the final four slots determined by an onsite tournament in Oneonta. Beyond the competition, the event highlights individual character; Keegan Ruggieri of Myrtle Beach will be honored as the first "Unrivaled Athlete" during a broadcast spot for his leadership and community volunteerism.

Former MLB Cy Young winner Jake Peavy serves as the event’s ambassador, helping oversee a week that includes visits to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and skills competitions. The event also partners with the Miracle League, featuring a special exhibition game on July 4 where tournament participants will serve as volunteers. Live coverage will be provided by GameChanger, with the championship game airing nationally on CBS Sports Network. Following this inaugural run, Unrivaled Sports plans to expand the series in 2027 to include 11U divisions at Rocker B Ranch alongside the 12U tournament in New York.