WELCOME to the U, Rookie Shepard!

The journey of high school senior Rookie Shepard (Las Vegas, NV - Faith Lutheran) took a sudden turn over the weekend. He had earlier declared for the Major League Draft. However, on Sunday he announced he was withdrawing from the draft and would instead be attending Miami.

At 6’-0”/190, Rookie was originally signed by the Canes in November of 2025 but decided to instead declare for the MLB Draft. That changed again on Sunday.

"After thoughtful conversations with my family and those I trust most, I've decided to withdraw my name from the 2026 MLB Draft and fully commit to the next chapter of my baseball journey in college," Rookie posted on social media. "The dream hasn't changed. The path has. Excited for what's ahead. Let's get to work."

photo courtesy of 247Sports

Rookie, a left-handed hitter, hit .511 with 17 doubles, two triples, three home runs, 11 stolen bases and 34 RBIs as a senior.

PERFECT GAME evaluation: (2025)

"Rookie Shepard is a 2026 SS/2B with a 6-0 190 lb. frame from North Las Vegas, NV who attends Faith Lutheran. Medium athletic build with good present strength and more to come. 6.56 runner in the sixty. Primary middle infielder on defense, works low to the ground and is smooth through the ball, clean back hand actions, quick transfer and release, plays with confidence, lots more arm strength there than he showed. Left handed hitter, sets up in a narrow base with fast and loose hands, big game hitter, close to .500 career in PG play. Excellent student. Verbal commitment to Miami. Selected to play in the 2025 Perfect Game All-American Classic."

Following three years at Miami, he would be draft-eligible again in 2029.

Welcome to the U, Rookie! Welcome to the family!

GO CANES!