Despite having only 14 players, the Palmetto Ridge baseball team achieved their first regional playoff win in school history. Led by junior Greg Carrasco, who has pitched two complete games, the Bears pulled off a 5-4 upset against Mariner, showcasing their growth and cohesion as a team. The team, which finished with a 16-10 record, has demonstrated resilience by competing closely in losses, indicating a stronger mental toughness cultivated under coach Connor Perry. With a growing sense of belief, they aim to continue making waves in the postseason.

By the Numbers
  • Palmetto Ridge has won their first FHSAA regional playoff game after an 11-11 record last year.
  • Greg Carrasco has pitched 59.2 innings with a 1.88 ERA and hit .299 with 20 hits this season.
State of Play
  • The Bears are preparing for a best-of-3 regional semifinal against Tampa Freedom, who upset St. Petersburg.
  • Palmetto Ridge's team culture has strengthened despite the loss of three players mid-season.
What's Next

The Bears will face Tampa Freedom in the regional semifinals, aiming to build on their recent momentum and advance towards the state semifinal. The outcome of this series will determine their chance to compete further in the playoffs.

Bottom Line

Palmetto Ridge's remarkable journey illustrates the power of teamwork and belief, as they challenge traditional expectations with a small but dedicated roster. Their story demonstrates that success stems from resilience and a strong team culture, proving that size doesn't dictate achievement in sports.