South Florida Coaches React To New Playoff System

Last week, plans were approved that will bring two-out-of-three playoff series’ to the regional quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals. The 28 games were denied for the upcoming season, leaving the teams 25 allowed regular season games.

The reactions to the system changes have been broad, with opinions mostly falling along tier lines. The schools that have built traditionally deeper programs, are in favor of the new format. Schools that have seen their programs raided in recent years by the top programs, believe the gap has grown wider, and the chances of them making a magical run to the State Final Four, have diminished.

HSBN caught up this week with coaches from across South Florida. Here are their reactions to the new format…

“I think it makes the game a little more strategic on who throws, and match ups, or how deep your pitching staff is. If these series’ go to a third game, you are talking about it being your 5th or 6th arm on the mound. That makes it more important to make sure you get those guys innings during the regular season, so they are battle-tested come playoff time. I like the change. No more using one or two guys to get you to states.” – Todd Fitz-Gerald, Manager, Stoneman Douglas

“Anything that is going to help us play more games, I think is a great thing for the kids. The new system is going to ensure that the best teams get into the state tournament.” – Ralph Suarez, Manager, Doral

“I’m glad to see the FHSAA willing to make some changes. However, I think a better playoff format would have been to keep the regional format the same as in previous years, but go back to the district champion and runner-up advancing. Then, the state finals be a three game series between the two final teams.” – Joe Franco, Manager, Coral Glades

“I like the new format of best-of-three for regionals, it is something many of us have wanted for years. Matt Cleveland did a terrific job of drawing it up, and explaining the rationale for the entire proposal. The component of allowing 28 games is something I really wished would have passed. I would eliminate the district tourney, and give 28 games, and then straight to regional playoffs based on rankings. But at least we moved the needle closer to a baseball system where we have the best teams advancing.” – Jerry Albert, Manager, West Boca

“I was really hoping the 28 games would pass. Sadly, Florida still plays less games than many other states, that can’t play year-round like we can. At the end of the day, the more opportunities these players get. The new playoff structure will benefit the better teams and will ensure the best teams in each region advance to states. I also want to acknowledge my good friend Matt Cleveland for his tireless effort and dedication he put into advancing both the 28 games and two-out-of-three playoff system.” – Joe Giummule, Manager, Jupiter

“I like the new playoff format. It is more representative of the game of baseball.” – Jorge Miranda, Manager, Taravella

“I am a fan of the two-out-of-three formal. However, I am a little disappointed in losing a regular season playing week with the new timeline. Only having nine week to get in 25 games creates a lot more three-game weeks. For teams that have the depth and pitching to do that, it will be fine. But for the majority of the programs, that don’t have that depth, they may have to choose to play less than 25 games, and that will short change the kids. I also don’t like that districts start two weeks earlier. April is such a busy time for seniors, there are a lot of distractions and obligations for them. Another major obstacle to maneuver around for underclassmen is mandatory testing in April. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.” – Nick Franco, Manager, Dr. Garcia

“We are very happy and thankful for Matt Cleveland, who spearheaded this process in Gainesville with the FHSAA. The new playoff format ensures all programs will have to focus on developing deeper pitching staffs, which in turn provides more opportunities for our student athletes. It is a big win for high school baseball in Florida, and surely allows our baseball talent to shine on a higher level, like our rival states.” – Dan Rovetto, Manager, University School

“I do not like the two-out-of-three regional playoff format. Most teams do not play back-to-back days, or double-headers all season. My first thought is that injuries may come into play, after a condensed regular season grind, and playing in Florida weather, I think teams may be limping into the state Final Four. I would like the 2-out-of-3 format for just the regional finals. You have to be really good to get to the regional finals in most regions, and a two-out-of-three at the end of regionals would send the best teams to states, without having to play a possible four additional games.” – Jason Hamilton, Manager, Cardinal Gibbons

“The new system was needed. During regional games in the past, the best teams could have a bad game and would be out. Now, they will have a chance to rebound from a bad game. It is going to take high school baseball to another level. The competition in these best of three series’, and the community interest is going to be elevated.” – Carlos Iglesias, Manager, Pembroke Pines Charter

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