Some close games decided the 2A and 3A State Champions. Now we move ahead with our 5A Preview with the 6A coming later today.

Game 1: No. 1 Parrish Community vs. No. 4 Horizon

Parrish Community:

  • Key Players: Alysa Jones (.456 batting average, 24 RBIs), Alex Call (3 home runs), Rylee Little (1.80 ERA, 198 strikeouts).
  • Path to the Final Four: Parrish Community defeated North Fort Myers 12-3 to advance. Alysa Jones had an outstanding performance, going 4-4 with 3 RBIs, while Rylee Little contributed 4 RBIs and secured the win with 12 strikeouts.

Horizon:

  • Key Players: Lila Hernandez (.495 batting average), Avery Velazquez (6 home runs, 1.17 ERA), Mackenzie Duncan (0.75 ERA).
  • Path to the Final Four: Horizon edged out Osceola 3-2 in extra innings. Addison Futch and Theresa Diez each went 2-4. Velazquez and Duncan combined to strike out 10 batters, showcasing their pitching depth.

Matchup Analysis: Parrish Community’s potent offense and reliable pitching from Rylee Little will face off against Horizon’s balanced attack and strong pitching duo of Velazquez and Duncan. The game will likely be a pitcher’s battle, with both teams having the firepower to score runs when needed.

Prediction: Parrish Community enters as the favorite with its top seeding and consistent performances throughout the season. Horizon’s depth in pitching and clutch hitting in close games make it interesting. Parrish Community’s success will hinge on its ability to maintain offensive pressure and leverage Little’s pitching performance.

Game 2: No. 2 Archbishop McCarthy vs. No. 3 Gainesville

Archbishop McCarthy:

  • Key Players: Sienna Garcia (.524 batting average, 5 home runs, 31 RBIs), Garcia (1.11 ERA, 105 strikeouts).
  • Path to the Final Four: Archbishop McCarthy defeated Pembroke Pines Charter 12-4 to reach the Final Four. Gianna Dilella went 3-4 with 2 RBIs, while Chantale Guillou and Cheyanne Chaffin each drove in 3 RBIs. Garcia earned the win with 5 strikeouts.

Gainesville:

  • Key Players: Braylin Cook (.466 batting average, 12 home runs, 43 RBIs), Leanna Bourdage (0.52 ERA, 230 strikeouts, 7 home runs).
  • Path to the Final Four: Gainesville secured their spot by defeating Gulf Breeze 3-0. McKenna O’Sullivan and Leanna Bourdage each went 2-4, with Bourdage earning the win and shutout by striking out 12.

Matchup Analysis: This game features a showdown between Archbishop McCarthy’s dynamic offense, led by Sienna Garcia, and Gainesville’s standout pitcher Leanna Bourdage, who also contributes significantly at the plate. Archbishop McCarthy’s ability to score runs and Garcia’s dual-threat capability in the circle will be tested by Gainesville’s dominant pitching and balanced offense.

Prediction: Gainesville’s strong pitching, particularly Bourdage’s remarkable season, gives them a slight edge in this matchup. However, Archbishop McCarthy’s explosive offense and solid pitching from Garcia make them a tough out The game could come down to one play.

Overall, the 5A Florida Final Four promises high-level competition and exciting softball action as these teams vie for a spot in the championship game.