10-05-2025
Uncharted waters, Arnold prepares for first Final Four
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – For the first time in program history, the Arnold baseball team has secured a spot in the FHSAA state semifinals, following a nail-biting finish to their playoff series against Clay High School.
One year ago, Arnold's season ended in the Region Championship with a loss to South Walton — just one game shy of the Final Four.
That defeat became a turning point. After opening this season 7-5 against one of the toughest schedules in school history, the Marlins rallied to win 20 of their next 22 games.
Now, they're headed to Fort Myers.
'We are definitely excited,' said senior first baseman Eli Blair. 'We've never been here before, so it feels like a dream. This is what we've been working for all year.'
The team credits its grueling regular-season schedule for preparing them for the postseason.
'There are always ups and downs,' Blair said. 'But those moments have prepared us well for what's ahead.'
Five seniors have now experienced the postseason under head coach Chris Jones. That core group has become the foundation of this historic playoff run.
'It's always been a huge goal since freshman year,' said senior pitcher Cooper Moss. 'We've made the playoffs every year but came up short. This year's been different. It's been special, and getting to spend that time together has meant a lot.'
The drive to reach the Final Four has been fueled by the heartbreak of last year's ending — and the team is determined not to let history repeat itself.
'That feeling from last year isn't something anyone wants again,' said senior outfielder Austin Hendrix. 'It's been felt all year. Everyone is locked in.'
Seeding for the semifinals has not yet been finalized, but Arnold is expected to enter as the No. 3 seed.
A likely matchup against No. 2 seed American Heritage awaits on Monday, May 19, in Fort Myers.
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