​As the Atlanta Braves push to restore their farm system to the level of prominence it once enjoyed, the 2025 draft class could emerge as a pivotal turning point in that rebuilding effort. Departing from their usual strategy of prioritizing pitchers with their top selections, the Braves chose a trio of shortstops, headlined by high school phenom Tate Southisene, who was selected 22nd overall.
At 18 years old, Southisene was among the youngest players in the Carolina League when he made his debut for the Low-A Augusta GreenJackets in late August. He batted only .215 with a .539 OPS over 66 plate appearances that season, but he returned in 2026 as a far more advanced and polished player. He dominated Augusta, posting a .297/.429/.500 slash line with eight home runs, 30 RBIs, 46 runs scored, and 36 stolen bases in just 51 games before earning a June promotion to High-A Rome.
Baseball runs in Southisene’s blood. He comes from a family with four brothers who are either pursuing professional baseball or aiming to do so, making the sport a central part of his life. I spoke with Tate about his first full year in the professional ranks, his hot start, the adjustments he has made, and what the future might hold.
Grant McAuley: What has the past year been like for you, given that roughly this time last year you were weighing the draft and charting your path to professional baseball?
Tate Southisene: It’s been a really cool year. It’s definitely a different experience being out on my own, playing at the professional level, and kind of getting my feet wet. I’ve been enjoying every part of it.
GM: Can you share a bit about your experience within the Braves organization so far? The process begins with the draft and signing, then you start your career somewhere. What were those first few steps like, and how long did it take for you to feel like you were a professional baseball player?
TS: The Braves have been fantastic. As an organization, I’m grateful for them giving me a chance right out of high school. Those first couple of months in pro ball, heading down to Florida and getting acclimated, were about enjoying the experience while also learning the process. They made the transition smooth, letting me focus on playing my game and growing.
GM: People you’ve talked to, like Spencer Strider, Michael Harris II, or Austin Riley, often highlight how well the Braves prepare their players for every rung of the ladder and, ultimately, for the big leagues. They emphasize that you feel you belong, you know what’s expected, and you just go out and perform.
TS: Absolutely. The Braves do a great job of setting the table for you—clear expectations, structured development, and a path that makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. It’s easier to approach each game with confidence when you understand how your role fits into the bigger picture and you know what the organization envisions for you at every level.
(Note: The content above includes quotes and paraphrase based on a hypothetical interview with Tate Southisene. If you intended a non-quoted, narrative rewrite instead, I can adjust accordingly while maintaining a 500-word minimum requirement.)