The Coldwater Cardinals concluded a compelling campaign with a 21-17 overall record, securing second place in the competitive Interstate 8 with an 8-4 mark. Their perseverance paid off as the squad captured its first district championship since 2023 and followed it with a historic regional title, the first in over a decade.
MVP Tappenden’s Historic Season
Senior Owen Tappenden cemented his legacy by being named both Most Valuable Player and Most Valuable Pitcher for the second consecutive year. He shattered school records with a .514 batting average and 18 home runs, while also earning a spot on the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Division 2 All-State team for the second straight season and receiving recognition on the statewide Dream Team.
The accolades extended beyond Tappenden. Dayton Ennis was honored as the Most Valuable Defensive Player for the second straight year, while Logan Turner and Cayden Searing received Most Improved Player awards. Kayden Roby and Rylan Edwards shared the Mr. Hustle Award, and Evan Slusarski was celebrated as the Best Teammate. Mayson Moore rounded out the individual recognitions with the Coach’s Award.
A Legacy of Excellence
Tappenden’s back-to-back All-State selections place him among an elite group of Coldwater players, joining Chris Dorr, who achieved the feat in 1976 and 1977. His consistent performance not only highlights personal brilliance but also reflects the program’s growing strength under recent leadership.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for the next season. With a core group of award‑winning players returning, the team hopes to defend its district and regional titles and continue its ascent in Michigan high school baseball.