Friday’s CIF‑Southern Section Baseball Quarterfinal slate
The Southern California baseball playoffs will reach their quarterfinal round this Friday, with games kicking off across the region in the mid‑afternoon. While most contests are slated to start at 3:15 p.m., a handful of matchups will begin at slightly different times, setting the stage for a busy day of elimination baseball.
In Division 3, Mira Costa (18‑12) will host Dos Pueblos (20‑10) in a clash of two of the section’s most consistent programs. Both teams entered the tournament with strong records, and the winner will advance to the semifinals later this month.
Division 5 features a marquee meeting between Culver City (14‑15‑1) and St. Bernard (17‑12). The game is scheduled for the MLB Youth Academy in Compton, a venue that has become a frequent host for high‑stakes playoff contests.
Division 7 will see Carpinteria (19‑5) take on North Torrance (13‑16). The Warriors, boasting the best win‑loss mark among the remaining teams, will look to extend their postseason run against a resilient Torrance squad.
In Division 8, Chadwick (13‑10) meets Rancho Alamitos (13‑11) in a tightly contested matchup that could be decided by a single run. Meanwhile, Division 9’s Crossroads Christian (13‑5) will face Lennox Academy (12‑12) at 2:30 p.m. on West Torrance Field, a venue known for its intimate atmosphere.
The final quarterfinal on the schedule pits Bethel Christian/Riverside (12‑10) against Rolling Hills Prep (9‑11) at 4 p.m. at Peninsula High School. Both programs have shown resilience throughout the season, and the later start time promises a different energy on the field.
What’s at stake
Beyond the immediate thrill of the games, the quarterfinals determine which teams will earn a shot at the section’s championship bracket. Coaches and players alike have emphasized the importance of early‑season preparation, and the outcomes will shape the narrative for the remainder of the postseason.
Fans can expect a day filled with tight contests, strategic pitching duels and the kind of high‑stakes drama that has become a hallmark of Southern California high‑school baseball. Coverage will be available across local outlets and online platforms, ensuring that every swing and strikeout is captured.