Ripken Baseball will debut its first-ever Ripken Nationals in 2026, heralding a country‑wide 12U national championship. Regional qualifying events begin in March across the United States, culminating in a national title series slated for later in the year. This initiative marks a milestone in youth baseball, offering elite 12U teams a new pathway to a national championship under the Ripken Baseball banner. UMAC Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth Baseball and affiliated programs may see new opportunities to participate and showcase talent on a national stage. The tournament leverages Ripken Baseball’s expanding footprint in youth sports.