Chapin's Lower State Triumph
Chapin’s baseball squad captured the Class 5A Division II Lower State championship on May 21, 2026, edging West Florence 6‑3 in a game that showcased a blend of power and poise. Felix Flecha Ruiz ignited the offense with a three‑run double, while Kaedyn Harris added a two‑run homer that stretched the lead. Griff Harper delivered a complete game on the mound, allowing just two earned runs on six hits, and Reese Jolley contributed a timely hit that kept the rally alive. The victory completed a sweep of the series and secured a berth in the state championship.
The team’s depth was evident as younger players stepped up, with Jaden Atkinson and Austin Rhodus providing solid defense, while Rylan Bullis and Isahia Clemmons added speed on the bases. Pitcher Griff Harper’s stamina and the clutch hitting of Felix Flecha Ruiz and Kaedyn Harris proved decisive, sealing a 6‑3 win that left the crowd roaring.
AC Flora's Upper State Victory
AC Flora’s baseball team rolled past Wren 14‑3 to claim the Class 4A Upper State title, a performance that marked their first appearance in the championship series since 2021. Charlie Scott and Luke Price each collected three hits, driving in multiple runs, while Riggs Scott’s 3.1 innings of relief shut down the opposition’s late surge. The offense was relentless, with several batters delivering two‑run singles that piled on the score.
The win underscored the program’s resurgence, as the squad combined disciplined hitting with a strong pitching staff. The chemistry among players such as Justin Sightler and Gabe Ingram helped maintain momentum, and the victory set the stage for a showdown with the Lower State champion.
Airport's Road to the Finals
Airport’s baseball team kept its title hopes alive by defeating Hartsville 9‑7, a game highlighted by Braden Gross’s three‑run triple that flipped the lead in the fifth inning. Cash Epps closed out the contest by striking out the final batter, preserving the win. The roster also features Jaden Atkinson, Austin Rhodus, Rylan Bullis, Isahia Clemmons, Justin Sightler and Gabe Ingram, who have contributed throughout the season and now stand on the brink of a historic series.
With the decisive game scheduled for Saturday, the winner will advance to face AC Flora in the state championship series, a matchup that promises high stakes and fierce competition. The community’s excitement is palpable, as fans anticipate a showdown that could define the season.
What’s at Stake
Beyond the trophies, the championship series represents a culmination of months of hard work, strategic planning, and teamwork. For each program, the game offers a chance to showcase talent on a larger stage, attract future recruits, and cement a legacy in South Carolina baseball. The outcome will reverberate through the schools, local businesses, and the broader sports community.